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Argentina, Norway, Algeria Advance in 48-Team World Cup

6/23/2026

31 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The 2026 World Cup features 48 teams playing 72 group-stage matches before a 32-team knockout round.
Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 in Arlington, Texas, with Messi scoring his 17th World Cup goal, advancing Argentina to Round of 32.
Norway beat Senegal 3-2, with Haaland scoring twice, securing Norway’s first knockout appearance since 1998.
Algeria rallied to beat Jordan 2-1, leveling the group with Austria and keeping its World Cup campaign alive.

History

Historical Context

In 1998 FIFA expanded the World Cup to 32 national teams, adding eight matches and raising total games from 56 to 64, a change that boosted broadcast revenue and helped host France win its first title with a 3-0 victory over Brazil. The upcoming 2026 edition will further enlarge the field, continuing the long-term trend toward broader global participation under FIFA’s governance.

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Story summary

The 2026 World Cup features 48 teams playing 72 group-stage matches before a 32-team knockout round.
Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 in Arlington, Texas, with Messi scoring his 17th World Cup goal, advancing Argentina to Round of 32.
Norway beat Senegal 3-2, with Haaland scoring twice, securing Norway’s first knockout appearance since 1998.
Algeria rallied to beat Jordan 2-1, leveling the group with Austria and keeping its World Cup campaign alive.

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