WC26 Knockout Simulator: Who Plays Whom in the Round of 32?

Who plays whom in the WC26 Round of 32 isn't fixed — it depends on how the groups finish. With our new Knockout Simulator you can now play it out yourself.

How the Knockout Simulator works

• Reorder the groups: Move teams up or down in each of the 12 groups. The Round of 32 recalculates instantly.
• Click to the final: Tap the winner in each match — they advance automatically through the Round of 16, quarter-finals, and semi-finals to the final. At the end you get your champion.
• Share your bracket: Every scenario has its own link that opens your exact bracket — complete with a preview image for WhatsApp, Telegram and more.

Free, no signup.

Why it's fun: finish 2nd or 3rd?

A debate raging in Austria right now: if Austria finishes 2nd in its group and Spain finishes 1st, the two meet in the Round of 32 already. Finishing 3rd (if among the 8 best third-placed teams) might draw a kinder opponent. These are exactly the "what if" questions the simulator lets you test instead of just arguing about them.

For a full overview of all 48 teams and groups, see our WC26 complete guide. For the biggest underdogs, read our dark horse analysis.

From scenario to a real tipping round

If playing around gives you the bug: one click turns your bracket into a real tipping round. Invite your crew, tip every match, and watch the live leaderboard.

FAQ

How are the WC26 Round-of-32 matchups decided?

The 16 Round-of-32 ties are pre-fixed by FIFA: each is a group winner against a group runner-up or one of the 8 best third-placed teams. Which specific team lands in which slot depends entirely on the final group standings — which is exactly what the tool simulates.

Is the Knockout Simulator free?

Yes. The simulator is completely free and works without signing up.

Can I share my bracket?

Yes. Every scenario generates its own link that opens your exact bracket — with a preview image for social networks.