{"id":2010077,"date":"2026-06-25T06:06:45","date_gmt":"2026-06-25T03:06:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2010077"},"modified":"2026-06-25T06:06:45","modified_gmt":"2026-06-25T03:06:45","slug":"mexico-switzerland-and-brazil-top-their-groups-after-final-matchday-of-world-cup-group-stages","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2010077","title":{"rendered":"Mexico, Switzerland and Brazil top their groups after final matchday of World Cup group stages"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/1200x675_cmsv2_6dfc1083-44fc-5e71-80d5-0c4b248ece0e-9812503.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<article id=\"abe-2904839-pos1-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1\" data-nid=\"2904839\" data-cid=\"9813210\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2904839-label-pos1-c-latest-stories\" 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left, and two giant planets that NASA&apos;s TESS space telescope discovered in its orbit.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Tech News<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Scientists find two Jupiter-sized planets &#8216;lighter than cotton candy&#8217;\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2904839-pos1-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2\" data-nid=\"2904839\" data-cid=\"9813210\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2904839-label-pos1-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/32\/10\/189x106_cmsv2_23ef272e-9449-5e01-9785-adec3fa9ddfc-9813210.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"FILE: An Iranian IRGC speedboat moves in the Persian Gulf while an oil tanker is seen in background, 2 July 2012\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Iran<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    IRGC warns ships over Hormuz routes as Rubio draws line on tolls\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2903971-pos2-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video\" data-nid=\"2903971\" data-cid=\"9808542\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2903971-label-pos2-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/80\/85\/42\/189x106_cmsv2_42e50a14-2878-588a-b451-b46682a81488-9808542.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Euronews Tech Talks\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Euronews Tech Talks<\/p>\n<div 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Venezuela after earthquakes\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2904859-pos4-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2\" data-nid=\"2904859\" data-cid=\"9813267\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2904859-label-pos4-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/32\/67\/189x106_cmsv2_3aa55a43-b39f-5373-a03b-3d0db1b78d32-9813267.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"This illustration provided by NASA depicts the Sun-like star TOI-791, background left, and two giant planets that NASA&apos;s TESS space telescope discovered in its orbit.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Tech News<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Scientists find two Jupiter-sized planets &#8216;lighter than cotton candy&#8217;\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"helper-site-row o-article-newsy\">\n<div class=\"helper-site-container o-article-newsy__container\">\n<div class=\"o-article-newsy__main\">\n<header class=\"h-grid o-article-newsy__main__header\">\n<nav aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\" class=\"c-article-breadcrumbs\">\n<div id=\"adb-article-breadcrumb\" class=\"c-article-breadcrumbs__list\">\n<p>                          News<\/p>\n<p>                          Sport<\/p><\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<h1 class=\"c-article-redesign-title\">\n                            Mexico, Switzerland and Brazil top their groups after final matchday of World Cup group stages<\/h1>\n<div class=\"c-article-image-video u-position-relative \">\n<div class=\"js-superdiv u-aspect-ratio-16x9 u-position-relative \" data-sponsored=\"Partner content\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"js-poster-img c-article-media__img\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/1536x864_cmsv2_6dfc1083-44fc-5e71-80d5-0c4b248ece0e-9812503.jpg\" width=\"1536\" height=\"864\" loading=\"eager\" alt=\"Brazil&apos;s Neymar celebrates after the World Cup Group C  match against Scotland in Miami Gardens, Florida, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-caption u-position-absolute\"><i id=\"article-caption-content\" class=\"c-article-caption__content\"><span class=\"c-article-caption__text\"><br \/>\n              Brazil&#8217;s Neymar celebrates after the World Cup Group C  match against Scotland in Miami Gardens, Florida, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<br \/>\n                    <span class=\"u-color-white\">&#8211;\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"c-article-caption__copyright\">Copyright\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"c-article-caption__credit\">AP Photo<\/span><\/span><\/i><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-image-copyright c-article-image-copyright--novideo\">\n      Copyright\u00a0AP Photo\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"h-grid o-article-newsy__main__body u-article-content\">\n<div class=\"o-article-newsy__contributors-publication-date\">\n<div class=\"c-article-contributors\">\n  By&amp;nbspMalek Fouda\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-publication-date\" data-timestamp=\"1782367605\">\n                    Published on                 <time datetime=\"2026-06-25 08:06:45 +02:00\">25\/06\/2026 &#8211; 8:06 GMT+2<\/time><span class=\"c-article-publication-date__bullet\">\u2022<\/span>Updated<br \/>\n                                     <time datetime=\"09:22\">9:22<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-share-comment u-align-items-center u-display-flex\"><span class=\"c-article-share-comment__links u-align-items-center u-display-flex u-justify-content-center js-c-article-share-comment-share\"><span class=\"c-article-share-comment__label\">Share<\/span><\/span><span class=\"c-article-share-comment__label\">Comments<\/span><span 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class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-threads.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"threads\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Threads<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-threads.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"threads\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-whatsapp.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"whatsapp\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Whatsapp<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-whatsapp.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"whatsapp\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"c-article-summary\">\n        Brazilian superstar Neymar Jr made an emotional World Cup debut after earlier doubts saw him on the cusp of missing out due to a recent string of injuries and unconvincing performances.<br \/>\n    <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-article-content js-article-content\">\n<p>Matchday three of the World Cup group stage kicked off on Wednesday night and into the early hours of Thursday in more rushed fashion than over the last two weeks of play as three group \u2013 12 teams \u2013 played their final group games as FIFA hurries to wrap up the first stage and move the tournament to the elimination rounds.<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-ad u-show-for-mobile-only\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt loading=\"lazy\"><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-ad u-show-for-desktop\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt loading=\"lazy\"><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>For many teams the end of the group stage is a sigh of relief, as the top two finishers in each of the 12 groups gain automatic entry into the elimination rounds. But, for many others, this is where the anxiety begins.<\/p>\n<p>With this year\u2019s expanded World Cup format featuring 48 teams and 6 weeks of competition, not only are the top two places in each group going through to the Round of 32, but also eight of the best third place finishers.<\/p>\n<p>Here is a roundup of all six games that took place last night and this morning:<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Switzerland v Canada<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>The Swiss and Canadian teams were the first to take to the pitch on Wednesday night for a top of the table clash, going into the match tied at four points apiece and looking for a final win to finish top of their group.<\/p>\n<p>Both teams traded attacks and threatening moments in the first half but the match remained deadlocked at a goalless draw going into the halftime break with not much separating the two teams in Group B.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.6669921875\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_d2630601-331e-5b83-ac7c-bc9a895a3a27-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Switzerland&apos;s Ruben Vargas mobbed by teammates after scoring their first goal during the World Cup Group B match between against Canada in Vancouver, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Switzerland&#8217;s Ruben Vargas mobbed by teammates after scoring their first goal during the World Cup Group B match between against Canada in Vancouver, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Ethan Cairns\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Switzerland had the higher possession percentage and completed more passes than their Canadian tournament co-hosts, playing on home turf in Vancouver, but the Canadian team registered more shots on target but couldn\u2019t find the back of the net.<\/p>\n<p>It was in the first minute of the second half however where Switzerland\u2019s Ruben Vargas was able to open the scoring.<\/p>\n<p>A ball crossed into the box from forward Johan Manzambi found an unmarked Vargas in plenty of space where he had enough time to bring the ball to a stop before firing in a bottom left corner shot, which deflected off the post and made its way past the line.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.666015625\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_027fac99-9563-5b76-810c-9bf7bb9655a8-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Switzerland goalkeeper Gregor Kobel jumps to make a save during the World Cup Group B match between against Canada in Vancouver, British Columbia, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Switzerland goalkeeper Gregor Kobel jumps to make a save during the World Cup Group B match between against Canada in Vancouver, British Columbia, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Abbie Parr\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>It was soon after in the 57th minute that Switzerland\u2019s striker, Breel Embolo, found himself through on goal after Canada\u2019s defence blundered a loose ball and failed to clear it. But, in a selfless display, Embolo controlled the ball and turned to find teammate Manzambi free on the right side and laid the ball off to him.<\/p>\n<p>Manzambi was decisive on the ball when it mattered, firing a ball at goal which just about made its way past keeper Maxime Crepeau to make it 2-0.<\/p>\n<p>Canada who have enjoyed good performances thus far, particularly last week with their 6-0 thrashing of Qatar, joined the party soon after, as forward Promise David capitalised on a stunning assist from Nathan Saliba in the 76th.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.6611328125\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x535_cmsv2_8dff82e7-8358-5f55-aecd-4e042d795510-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Canada goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau is scored on by Switzerland&apos;s Ruben Vargas during the World Cup Group B match against Switzerland in Vancouver, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Canada goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau is scored on by Switzerland&#8217;s Ruben Vargas during the World Cup Group B match against Switzerland in Vancouver, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Ethan Cairns\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Saliba beautifully controlled a ball lobbed over Swiss defences and pushed it over to David who neatly slotted the ball into the net.<\/p>\n<p>Switzerland held out to maintain its slim lead over Canada, with it ending their group stage at seven points, Canada and Bosnia are tied at four points each, with Canada clinching the second place ranking on goal differential.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Bosnia v Qatar<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>The second match of Group B saw Qatar and Bosnia, vying to keep their World Cup hopes alive, as they looked to secure a final three points to push their tallies to four and maybe make it into the next round as one of the third place hopefuls.<\/p>\n<p>Bosnia was able to get passed Qatar convincingly with a 3-1 performance and looked the dominant side consistently.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.666015625\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_fa52c64b-bc55-525d-8e17-6308691a2b05-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Bosnia&apos;s Kerim Alajbegovic scores during the World Cup Group B match against Qatar in Seattle, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Bosnia&#8217;s Kerim Alajbegovic scores during the World Cup Group B match against Qatar in Seattle, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Maddy Grassy\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Midfielder Kerim Alajbegovi\u0107 opened the scoring in the 29th minute of the clash. A solo effort saw him dribble from the far left side to the far right before striking from well outside the box to find the top right corner and beat Qatari keeper Mahmud Abunada.<\/p>\n<p>An own goal by Qatari defender Sultan Al-Brake just minutes later threatened to end the run of the last hosts of the World Cup in 2022 early.<\/p>\n<p>But a defiant Qatar struck back in the 42nd minute after striker Hassan Al-Haydos converted an easy tap in, capitalising on a Bosnian defensive error which saw a dangerous pass go out of possession inside their own box and into the feet of forward Edmilson Junior.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.666015625\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_11aa3217-a225-5f75-b837-6c01e3e73f60-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Bosnia&apos;s Edin Dzeko celebrates with Esmir Bajraktarevic after Qatar&apos;s Sultan Albrake scored an own goal during the World Cup Group B match in Seattle, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Bosnia&#8217;s Edin Dzeko celebrates with Esmir Bajraktarevic after Qatar&#8217;s Sultan Albrake scored an own goal during the World Cup Group B match in Seattle, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Lindsey Wasson\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The match resumed after the halftime break albeit at a much slower tempo as Bosnia looked to hold onto its one goal lead. They were however able to add one more for security after 21-year-old Ermin Mahmi\u0107 drove a chaotic ball in Qatar\u2019s box into the net, securing what could be a renewed lifeline for the nation.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Morocco v Haiti<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Soufiane Rahimi and Gessime Yassine came off the bench to help Morocco rally for a 4-2 victory over Haiti on Wednesday and erase the Caribbean nation&#8217;s hopes of a first ever point at the World Cup.<\/p>\n<p>Morocco, which became the first African team to reach the World Cup semifinals four years ago in Qatar, twice came from behind against a team playing on football\u2019s biggest stage for the first time in 52 years.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.666015625\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_89ac9665-b4a4-58d0-bf73-ad053727d8c4-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Haiti&apos;s Lenny Joseph celebrates after Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou scored an own goal during the World Cup Group C match in Atlanta, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Haiti&#8217;s Lenny Joseph celebrates after Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou scored an own goal during the World Cup Group C match in Atlanta, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Erik S. Lesser\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Rahimi\u2019s deflected shot in the 78th minute put Morocco ahead 3-2 and Yassine killed off any chance of an upset with a goal in the 89th.<\/p>\n<p>Morocco advanced to the round of 32 in second place behind Brazil in Group C and will next play the runner up in Group F \u2014 Netherlands, Japan or Sweden \u2014 in Monterrey.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cAt times we lacked humility and paid the price for it,&#8221; Morocco midfielder Bilal El Khannouss said. &#8220;We weren\u2019t fully committed in the duels, we gave them confidence and allowed them to grow into the game and score twice. At halftime, the coach told us we needed to be more aggressive, win the second balls and bring greater intensity to our attacking play.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.66796875\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_76482b49-9b51-5725-8303-fb19f174e38d-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Morocco&apos;s Ismael Saibari reacts after scoring a goal during the World Cup Group C match against Haiti in Atlanta, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Morocco&#8217;s Ismael Saibari reacts after scoring a goal during the World Cup Group C match against Haiti in Atlanta, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Mike Stewart\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Morocco, which won the most recent Africa Cup of Nations, has ambitions to go deep again after making history at the last World Cup. But the team was given a scare by Haiti, which took a surprise lead in the 10th minute with a goal that was more than five decades in the making.<\/p>\n<p>PSG star Achraf Hakimi levelled the score in the 39th minute for his side. It was only three minutes later when Morocco conceded again to give Haiti a 2-1 lead. The North African nation was however quick to respond, scoring in the first minute of the first half\u2019s stoppage time to once again level the game going into the halftime break.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.666015625\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_da637dd2-d646-5d2d-8a1f-893236c5168c-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Morocco&apos;s Soufiane Rahimi celebrates after scoring their third goal during the World Cup Group C match against Haiti in Atlanta, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Morocco&#8217;s Soufiane Rahimi celebrates after scoring their third goal during the World Cup Group C match against Haiti in Atlanta, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Mike Stewart\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Morocco now officially goes through to the knockout stages after a seven point performance which sees them level with Brazil \u2013 who they drew with on matchday one \u2013 on points, but fall into the second place slot on goal difference.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Brazil v Scotland<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Brazil played its final group stage match in the early hours of Thursday, facing off against Scotland for a chance to maintain its top position in Group C after an opening draw with Morocco followed by a win over Haiti.<\/p>\n<p>Real Madrid superstar forward Vinicius Jr opened the scoring for Brazil, capitalising on heavy pressing from teammate Rayan who forced a defensive error which saw a dangerous loose ball go inside Scotland\u2019s box. A stunning dribble around keeper Angus Gunn saw the Brazilian facing off with an empty net, slotting the ball in to give his side a 1-0 lead in the 7th minute.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.666015625\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_28a40bec-e7e3-506f-8779-6c5da8d6e6ff-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Brazil&apos;s Vinicius Junior battles for the ball during the World Cup Group C match against Scotland in Miami Gardens, Florida, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Brazil&#8217;s Vinicius Junior battles for the ball during the World Cup Group C match against Scotland in Miami Gardens, Florida, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Rebecca Blackwell\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>It was all Vinicius in the first half after his own pressing saw him intercept a ball minutes later on the edge of the box before elegantly guiding it to the far bottom left corner past the keeper. Unfortunately for him however, the referee disallowed the goal referring to VAR for an offence committed in the leadup to the goal.<\/p>\n<p>Vini Jr however remained composed and managed to get on the end of a cross late into the first half stoppage time, where he snagged a header to drive his personal goal tally to four in the tournament so far, matching club teammate Kylian Mbappe and superstar Manchester City forward Erling Haaland, and only trailing Messi by one goal in the golden boot race.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.666015625\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_f008daaa-c658-5ce1-bdef-4510a387cdcd-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Brazil&apos;s Vinicius Jr celebrates after scoring his side&apos;s second goal during the World Cup Group C match against Scotland in Miami Gardens, Florida, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Brazil&#8217;s Vinicius Jr celebrates after scoring his side&#8217;s second goal during the World Cup Group C match against Scotland in Miami Gardens, Florida, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Rebecca Blackwell\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The second half was a continuation of Brazil\u2019s dominance as they kept pushing high into Scotland\u2019s defensive third and constantly trying to breakthrough searching for more goals to stay atop of Group C on goal difference.<\/p>\n<p>Their efforts did not take long to materialise, as Manchester United Matheus Cunha found the back of the net on the one hour mark, who was fed an easy ball to tap in inside the box after a brilliant effort by Brusno Guimar\u00e3es.<\/p>\n<p>Fan favourite Neymar Junior also made his World Cup debut in 2026, after earlier doubts the Brazilian superstar would not participate following a string of bad performances and injury-laden years saw him not make the initial World Cup squad list.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.666015625\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_9b56cb35-3770-513e-afc0-fac8893e4a6c-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Brazil&apos;s Matheus Cunha celebrates with Lucas Paqueta after scoring the third goal during the World Cup Group C match against Scotland in Miami, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Brazil&#8217;s Matheus Cunha celebrates with Lucas Paqueta after scoring the third goal during the World Cup Group C match against Scotland in Miami, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Lynne Sladky\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Neymar checked in during the 76th minute against Scotland on Wednesday, with the team leading 3-0 and well on its way to clinching a spot in the knockout stage that starts next week.<\/p>\n<p>His appearance wasn&#8217;t a surprise: Brazil said earlier this week that he would be available, clearing the way for the forward to make his debut after missing the first two matches because of a right calf injury.<\/p>\n<p>It was however his first appearance for his national side since 2023.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI\u2019m very happy to be wearing the national team jersey again after three years,\u201d he told Brazilian media, following an emotional embrace with his family before he left the field. \u201cI feel fine physically. Obviously, it was tough being sidelined for all those days.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.666015625\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_367ebf39-d404-5e06-bc8c-30924631404c-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Brazil&apos;s Neymar challenges for the ball during the World Cup Group C match against Scotland in Miami Gardens, Florida, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Brazil&#8217;s Neymar challenges for the ball during the World Cup Group C match against Scotland in Miami Gardens, Florida, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Lynne Sladky\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>He did not start, and it seemed like that was the plan Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti had all along when he raised the possibility earlier this week that Neymar could play as a substitute.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cA very important moment for all of us,\u201d Vin\u00edcius J\u00fanior, who scored two goals for Brazil, said in Portuguese.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cOur idol is back, a guy who always fought hard and did everything to be here, returning after a spell out with injury. I hope he can keep evolving and keep improving, helping us throughout the competition. That&#8217;s what matters most.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2><strong>South Africa v South Korea<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>South Africa advanced to the knockout phase of the World Cup for the first time with a 1-0 victory over South Korea on Thursday morning, in the first fixture of Group A, who were the last to play in the Wednesday-Thursday matchups.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.666015625\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_173dca0f-d26f-5ec9-b0bf-f68dc220bb52-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"South Africa&apos;s Thapelo Maseko scores the opening goal during the World Cup Group A match against South Korea in Guadalupe, near Monterrey, Mexico, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">South Africa&#8217;s Thapelo Maseko scores the opening goal during the World Cup Group A match against South Korea in Guadalupe, near Monterrey, Mexico, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Matias Delacroix\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Thapelo Maseko scored in the 63rd minute off a precise cross from Tshepang Moremi and South Africa finished in second place in Group A behind Mexico, which won all three of its group-stage games.<\/p>\n<p>South Africa will take on Canada, the second-place finisher in Group B, in a knockout game Sunday at Inglewood, California.<\/p>\n<p>Maseko had five total shots in the match and leads South Africa with eight shots in the tournament.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.666015625\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_1b7aa836-4e72-5bd3-872b-ff4915498d6e-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Thapelo Maseko celebrates with teammates after scoring his side&apos;s goal during the World Cup Group A match against South Korea in Guadalupe, Mexico, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Thapelo Maseko celebrates with teammates after scoring his side&#8217;s goal during the World Cup Group A match against South Korea in Guadalupe, Mexico, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Moises Castillo\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>When Maseko was asked what he would tell his younger self about his accomplishment, the Mamelodi Sundowns forward said: \u201cThe one thing I would say is \u2018keep dreaming.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n<p>South Korea however will now wait until the group stages are complete to see if their three point group campaign was enough to secure them a spot as one of the top eight third place finishers.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Mexico v Czechia<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Mateo Ch\u00e1vez and Juli\u00e1n Qui\u00f1ones scored in a six-minute span early in the second half, and Mexico beat the Czech Republic 3-0 on Wednesday to complete wins in all three of its World Cup group-stage matches for the first time.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.666015625\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_1ad9c85b-db81-523e-8975-43559977a528-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Mexico&apos;s Mateo Chavez scores their opening goal against Czechia goalkeeper Matej Kovar during the World Cup Group A match between in Mexico City, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Mexico&#8217;s Mateo Chavez scores their opening goal against Czechia goalkeeper Matej Kovar during the World Cup Group A match between in Mexico City, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Eduardo Verdugo\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The 22-year-old Ch\u00e1vez, in his first World Cup, opened the scoring in the 55th minute and Qui\u00f1ones scored his second goal of the tournament in the 61st. Alvaro Fidalgo added a goal in stoppage time.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt was something very beautiful, and I\u2019ll take it with me to the grave,\u201d Ch\u00e1vez said of his goal. \u201cI imagined it many times; I dreamed of this.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.666015625\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_b6aa2675-7948-5f38-a192-ae78262ce65a-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Mexico&apos;s Julian Quinones celebrates scoring his side&apos;s second goal against Czechia during a World Cup Group A match in Mexico City, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Mexico&#8217;s Julian Quinones celebrates scoring his side&#8217;s second goal against Czechia during a World Cup Group A match in Mexico City, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Silvia Izquierdo\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Mexico&#8217;s previous best group-stage performance was two wins and one draw, done in 1986 and 2002 and both featuring Javier Aguirre, the first as a midfielder and the second as El Tri&#8217;s coach. Aguirre is back as coach this year, his third stint leading the national team.<\/p>\n<p>After topping Group A, Mexico will play again at Estadio Azteca on Tuesday in a round-of-32 match against an opponent to be determined.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cNow comes the knockout stage; statistics and data don\u2019t matter. We\u2019re achieving things, but what lies ahead is what counts,\u201d said Mexico\u2019s coach Javier Aguirre. \u201cNeither the players nor I dwell on what we\u2019ve just done; we\u2019re thinking about what\u2019s next.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.666015625\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/808x539_cmsv2_2e46bd74-c366-5a1e-a11e-8349f6024646-9812503.jpg\" alt=\"Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa celebrates with teammates following the World Cup Group A match against Czechia in Mexico City, Wednesday, June 24, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa celebrates with teammates following the World Cup Group A match against Czechia in Mexico City, Wednesday, June 24, 2026<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Fernando Llano\/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Mexico is undefeated at nine World Cup matches at the massive stadium, which was packed with 80,824 fans on Wednesday.<\/p>\n<p>El Tri has only two losses at Azteca, most recently in World Cup qualifying against Honduras on 6 September, 2013.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<footer class=\"perf-cv-auto c-article-contributors c-article-contributors-supplementary u-margin-top-2 u-padding-top-2\">\n<p>Additional sources<strong> \u2022 AP<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/footer>\n<p>                                  Go to accessibility shortcuts<\/p>\n<div class=\"c-article-share-comment u-align-items-center u-display-flex\"><span class=\"c-article-share-comment__links u-align-items-center u-display-flex u-justify-content-center js-c-article-share-comment-share\"><span class=\"c-article-share-comment__label\">Share<\/span><\/span><span class=\"c-article-share-comment__label\">Comments<\/span><span 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data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Cate Blanchett launches free tool to protect identity from AI<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2904636-pos5-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2904636\" data-cid=\"9812114\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Heat records shattered as Spain sets double June high<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"articleBody\" data-key=\"articleBody\">Matchday three of the World Cup group stage kicked off on Wednesday night and into the early hours of Thursday in more rushed fashion than over the last two weeks of play as three group \u2013 12 teams \u2013 played their final group games as FIFA hurries to wrap up the first stage and move the tournament to the elimination rounds.For many teams the end of the group stage is a sigh of relief, as the top two finishers in each of the 12 groups gain automatic entry into the elimination rounds. But, for many others, this is where the anxiety begins.With this year\u2019s expanded World Cup format featuring 48 teams and 6 weeks of competition, not only are the top two places in each group going through to the Round of 32, but also eight of the best third place finishers.Here is a roundup of all six games that took place last night and this morning:Switzerland v CanadaThe Swiss and Canadian teams were the first to take to the pitch on Wednesday night for a top of the table clash, going into the match tied at four points apiece and looking for a final win to finish top of their group.Both teams traded attacks and threatening moments in the first half but the match remained deadlocked at a goalless draw going into the halftime break with not much separating the two teams in Group B.Switzerland had the higher possession percentage and completed more passes than their Canadian tournament co-hosts, playing on home turf in Vancouver, but the Canadian team registered more shots on target but couldn\u2019t find the back of the net.It was in the first minute of the second half however where Switzerland\u2019s Ruben Vargas was able to open the scoring.A ball crossed into the box from forward Johan Manzambi found an unmarked Vargas in plenty of space where he had enough time to bring the ball to a stop before firing in a bottom left corner shot, which deflected off the post and made its way past the line.It was soon after in the 57th minute that Switzerland\u2019s striker, Breel Embolo, found himself through on goal after Canada\u2019s defence blundered a loose ball and failed to clear it. But, in a selfless display, Embolo controlled the ball and turned to find teammate Manzambi free on the right side and laid the ball off to him.Manzambi was decisive on the ball when it mattered, firing a ball at goal which just about made its way past keeper Maxime Crepeau to make it 2-0.Canada who have enjoyed good performances thus far, particularly last week with their 6-0 thrashing of Qatar, joined the party soon after, as forward Promise David capitalised on a stunning assist from Nathan Saliba in the 76th.Saliba beautifully controlled a ball lobbed over Swiss defences and pushed it over to David who neatly slotted the ball into the net.Switzerland held out to maintain its slim lead over Canada, with it ending their group stage at seven points, Canada and Bosnia are tied at four points each, with Canada clinching the second place ranking on goal differential.Bosnia v QatarThe second match of Group B saw Qatar and Bosnia, vying to keep their World Cup hopes alive, as they looked to secure a final three points to push their tallies to four and maybe make it into the next round as one of the third place hopefuls.Bosnia was able to get passed Qatar convincingly with a 3-1 performance and looked the dominant side consistently.Midfielder Kerim Alajbegovi\u0107 opened the scoring in the 29th minute of the clash. A solo effort saw him dribble from the far left side to the far right before striking from well outside the box to find the top right corner and beat Qatari keeper Mahmud Abunada.An own goal by Qatari defender Sultan Al-Brake just minutes later threatened to end the run of the last hosts of the World Cup in 2022 early.But a defiant Qatar struck back in the 42nd minute after striker Hassan Al-Haydos converted an easy tap in, capitalising on a Bosnian defensive error which saw a dangerous pass go out of possession inside their own box and into the feet of forward Edmilson Junior.The match resumed after the halftime break albeit at a much slower tempo as Bosnia looked to hold onto its one goal lead. They were however able to add one more for security after 21-year-old Ermin Mahmi\u0107 drove a chaotic ball in Qatar\u2019s box into the net, securing what could be a renewed lifeline for the nation.Morocco v HaitiSoufiane Rahimi and Gessime Yassine came off the bench to help Morocco rally for a 4-2 victory over Haiti on Wednesday and erase the Caribbean nation&#8217;s hopes of a first ever point at the World Cup.Morocco, which became the first African team to reach the World Cup semifinals four years ago in Qatar, twice came from behind against a team playing on football\u2019s biggest stage for the first time in 52 years.Rahimi\u2019s deflected shot in the 78th minute put Morocco ahead 3-2 and Yassine killed off any chance of an upset with a goal in the 89th.Morocco advanced to the round of 32 in second place behind Brazil in Group C and will next play the runner up in Group F \u2014 Netherlands, Japan or Sweden \u2014 in Monterrey.\u201cAt times we lacked humility and paid the price for it,&#8221; Morocco midfielder Bilal El Khannouss said. &#8220;We weren\u2019t fully committed in the duels, we gave them confidence and allowed them to grow into the game and score twice. At halftime, the coach told us we needed to be more aggressive, win the second balls and bring greater intensity to our attacking play.\u201dMorocco, which won the most recent Africa Cup of Nations, has ambitions to go deep again after making history at the last World Cup. But the team was given a scare by Haiti, which took a surprise lead in the 10th minute with a goal that was more than five decades in the making.PSG star Achraf Hakimi levelled the score in the 39th minute for his side. It was only three minutes later when Morocco conceded again to give Haiti a 2-1 lead. The North African nation was however quick to respond, scoring in the first minute of the first half\u2019s stoppage time to once again level the game going into the halftime break.Morocco now officially goes through to the knockout stages after a seven point performance which sees them level with Brazil \u2013 who they drew with on matchday one \u2013 on points, but fall into the second place slot on goal difference.Brazil v ScotlandBrazil played its final group stage match in the early hours of Thursday, facing off against Scotland for a chance to maintain its top position in Group C after an opening draw with Morocco followed by a win over Haiti.Real Madrid superstar forward Vinicius Jr opened the scoring for Brazil, capitalising on heavy pressing from teammate Rayan who forced a defensive error which saw a dangerous loose ball go inside Scotland\u2019s box. A stunning dribble around keeper Angus Gunn saw the Brazilian facing off with an empty net, slotting the ball in to give his side a 1-0 lead in the 7th minute.It was all Vinicius in the first half after his own pressing saw him intercept a ball minutes later on the edge of the box before elegantly guiding it to the far bottom left corner past the keeper. Unfortunately for him however, the referee disallowed the goal referring to VAR for an offence committed in the leadup to the goal.Vini Jr however remained composed and managed to get on the end of a cross late into the first half stoppage time, where he snagged a header to drive his personal goal tally to four in the tournament so far, matching club teammate Kylian Mbappe and superstar Manchester City forward Erling Haaland, and only trailing Messi by one goal in the golden boot race.The second half was a continuation of Brazil\u2019s dominance as they kept pushing high into Scotland\u2019s defensive third and constantly trying to breakthrough searching for more goals to stay atop of Group C on goal difference.Their efforts did not take long to materialise, as Manchester United Matheus Cunha found the back of the net on the one hour mark, who was fed an easy ball to tap in inside the box after a brilliant effort by Brusno Guimar\u00e3es.Fan favourite Neymar Junior also made his World Cup debut in 2026, after earlier doubts the Brazilian superstar would not participate following a string of bad performances and injury-laden years saw him not make the initial World Cup squad list.Neymar checked in during the 76th minute against Scotland on Wednesday, with the team leading 3-0 and well on its way to clinching a spot in the knockout stage that starts next week.His appearance wasn&#8217;t a surprise: Brazil said earlier this week that he would be available, clearing the way for the forward to make his debut after missing the first two matches because of a right calf injury.It was however his first appearance for his national side since 2023.\u201cI\u2019m very happy to be wearing the national team jersey again after three years,\u201d he told Brazilian media, following an emotional embrace with his family before he left the field. \u201cI feel fine physically. Obviously, it was tough being sidelined for all those days.\u201dHe did not start, and it seemed like that was the plan Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti had all along when he raised the possibility earlier this week that Neymar could play as a substitute.\u201cA very important moment for all of us,\u201d Vin\u00edcius J\u00fanior, who scored two goals for Brazil, said in Portuguese.\u201cOur idol is back, a guy who always fought hard and did everything to be here, returning after a spell out with injury. I hope he can keep evolving and keep improving, helping us throughout the competition. That&#8217;s what matters most.\u201dSouth Africa v South KoreaSouth Africa advanced to the knockout phase of the World Cup for the first time with a 1-0 victory over South Korea on Thursday morning, in the first fixture of Group A, who were the last to play in the Wednesday-Thursday matchups.Thapelo Maseko scored in the 63rd minute off a precise cross from Tshepang Moremi and South Africa finished in second place in Group A behind Mexico, which won all three of its group-stage games.South Africa will take on Canada, the second-place finisher in Group B, in a knockout game Sunday at Inglewood, California.Maseko had five total shots in the match and leads South Africa with eight shots in the tournament.When Maseko was asked what he would tell his younger self about his accomplishment, the Mamelodi Sundowns forward said: \u201cThe one thing I would say is \u2018keep dreaming.\u2019\u201dSouth Korea however will now wait until the group stages are complete to see if their three point group campaign was enough to secure them a spot as one of the top eight third place finishers.Mexico v CzechiaMateo Ch\u00e1vez and Juli\u00e1n Qui\u00f1ones scored in a six-minute span early in the second half, and Mexico beat the Czech Republic 3-0 on Wednesday to complete wins in all three of its World Cup group-stage matches for the first time.The 22-year-old Ch\u00e1vez, in his first World Cup, opened the scoring in the 55th minute and Qui\u00f1ones scored his second goal of the tournament in the 61st. Alvaro Fidalgo added a goal in stoppage time.\u201cIt was something very beautiful, and I\u2019ll take it with me to the grave,\u201d Ch\u00e1vez said of his goal. \u201cI imagined it many times; I dreamed of this.\u201dMexico&#8217;s previous best group-stage performance was two wins and one draw, done in 1986 and 2002 and both featuring Javier Aguirre, the first as a midfielder and the second as El Tri&#8217;s coach. Aguirre is back as coach this year, his third stint leading the national team.After topping Group A, Mexico will play again at Estadio Azteca on Tuesday in a round-of-32 match against an opponent to be determined.\u201cNow comes the knockout stage; statistics and data don\u2019t matter. We\u2019re achieving things, but what lies ahead is what counts,\u201d said Mexico\u2019s coach Javier Aguirre. \u201cNeither the players nor I dwell on what we\u2019ve just done; we\u2019re thinking about what\u2019s next.\u201dMexico is undefeated at nine World Cup matches at the massive stadium, which was packed with 80,824 fans on Wednesday.El Tri has only two losses at Azteca, most recently in World Cup qualifying against Honduras on 6 September, 2013.<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.euronews.com\/2026\/06\/25\/mexico-switzerland-and-brazil-top-their-groups-after-final-matchday-of-world-cup-group-sta&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/81\/25\/03\/1200x675_cmsv2_6dfc1083-44fc-5e71-80d5-0c4b248ece0e-9812503.jpg&#8221;] Iran IRGC warns ships over Hormuz routes as Rubio draws line on tolls Euronews Tech Talks How much do we know about microplastics? | Euronews Tech Talks podcast Venezuela International community pledges aid to Venezuela after earthquakes Tech News Scientists find two Jupiter-sized planets &#8216;lighter than cotton candy&#8217; Iran IRGC warns ships [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[90],"tags":[226,36],"class_list":["post-2010077","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-international","tag-crawlmanager","tag-euronews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2010077","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2010077"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2010077\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2010077"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2010077"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2010077"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}