What South Africa, South Korea, and Czech Republic Must Do to Advance from Group A in World Cup 2026

The 2026 World Cup group stage is nearing its conclusion, and teams in Group A are battling to secure their spots in the knockout rounds. With 32 of the 48 nations moving on, qualification involves finishing in the top two of each group or ranking among the best eight third-placed teams across groups.

Mexico have already clinched first place in Group A after victories over both South Africa and South Korea. Their head-to-head record against South Korea guarantees their top spot, as Korea is the only side that could match Mexico's points tally.

South Korea sits second with three points, thanks to a win in their opener. Both South Africa and Czech Republic hold one point apiece, leaving all three teams with a chance to progress.

How South Korea Can Secure Progression

South Korea needs at least a draw against South Africa in their final group match scheduled for June 25 at 2am BST. A victory would elevate them to six points, solidifying second place. A draw would leave them at four points—enough to surpass Czech Republic due to their superior head-to-head record.

If South Korea loses, South Africa would overtake them in the standings. Then, Korea’s fate depends on how Czech Republic performs against Mexico to determine if Korea can advance as one of the best third-placed teams with three points.

South Africa's Route to the Round of 32

Currently last in Group A with just one point from a draw against Czech Republic, South Africa must defeat South Korea to move ahead. This would give them four points, likely enough for at least third place depending on Czech Republic’s result against Mexico.

A loss would almost certainly end their campaign. A draw leaves them on two points, which probably won't suffice for advancing as a third-placed team.

What Czech Republic Needs to Move On

Czech Republic faces the toughest challenge. They must beat Mexico to reach four points and a strong chance of advancing, either finishing third or among the best third-place finishers.

A draw against Mexico would leave them on two points, an unlikely total to progress. Their standing also hinges on South Africa losing to South Korea, keeping Czech Republic in third place.

Understanding the Tiebreakers

If teams end level on points, their position depends on head-to-head records. The team that won the direct encounter ranks higher. When multiple teams share points, results between those teams alone form a mini-league, ranked by points, goal difference, then goals scored.

If still tied, overall group goal difference and goals scored come next.

Additional Tiebreakers

The Team Conduct Score (TCS) applies if previous criteria don’t separate teams. This fair play metric deducts points for disciplinary actions:

• Yellow card: -1
• Two yellows leading to a red: -3
• Straight red card: -4
• Yellow followed by straight red: -5

The team with fewer deductions ranks higher. If still level, FIFA rankings published in June decide who advances.

Determining the Best Third-Place Teams

The eight best third-place teams across all groups qualify based on points earned. If more than eight teams share the same points, goal difference decides who advances.

Teams finishing third with four points or more should qualify comfortably. Those with three points will need favorable goal differences.