2026 World Cup Group Stage Concludes: Canada Makes History, South Korea Faces Scrutiny

The group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has ended, with several nations securing dramatic progression to the knockout rounds. Canada earned its first World Cup knockout victory, while South Korea faced public criticism from its head of state following its elimination.

Canada vs. South Africa

Canada defeated South Africa 1-0 in stoppage time to advance to the round of 16. The match-winning goal was scored by captain Stephen Eustáquio in the 93rd minute.

"It was a collective team effort," Eustáquio said of the goal.

Penalty Claim

In the first half, Canada's Richie Laryea went down in the penalty area after contact with South Africa's Khuliso Mudau. The referee did not award a penalty, and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) upheld the on-field decision.

Former referee Christina Unkel stated she would have awarded a penalty. Former player Bradley Wright-Phillips argued that it was not a foul, referencing Laryea's history of earning penalties.

Canada midfielder Ismael Kone, who suffered a broken leg earlier, celebrated the team's victory on crutches.

Algeria's Support in Kansas

Algeria, which used the University of Kansas facilities in Lawrence as its training camp, received significant local support. Coach Vladimir Petković noted that 500-600 fans waited outside the team hotel. After Algeria qualified, the team was welcomed back with flares and fireworks.

Austria vs. Algeria

Austria and Algeria played to a 3-3 draw, with both teams advancing. Algeria took a 3-2 lead in the 93rd minute, and Austria equalized in the final seconds of stoppage time.

Austria coach Ralf Rangnick described the match as "dramatic."

He denied suggestions of collusion, stating that players continued to push for a winning goal.

South Korea's Elimination

South Korea was eliminated after losses to Mexico and South Africa. President Lee Jae-myung posted criticism of the team's performance, calling for an inquiry and stating that personnel decisions were flawed. He referenced allegations of favoritism in the hiring process.

Coach Hong Myung-bo resigned following the team's exit.

Other Group Stage Events

• Iran was eliminated after a 1-0 loss, with three goals disallowed by VAR.

Upcoming Round of 16 Matches

The following round of 16 matches are scheduled for Monday:

Match Predictions

According to the Opta supercomputer, win probabilities are as follows:

• Brazil vs Japan: Brazil 57.3%, Japan 19.7%, draw 23.0%
• Germany vs Paraguay: Germany 54.7%, Paraguay 23.1%, draw 22.3%
• Netherlands vs Morocco: Netherlands 47.6%, Morocco 25.0%, draw 27.4%