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Alex Mott·25 Juni 2026
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Alex Mott·25 Juni 2026
The final round of matches in Groups D, E and F takes place today as qualification for the World Cup knockout stage goes down to the wire.
Germany, Japan and USA are already there, whilst a host of other nations are fighting to keep their tournament alive.
So what are the burning questions ahead of today's World Cup action? Let's find out.
Curaçao v Côte d'Ivoire
This is the biggest game in Curaçao's football history.
After suffering a 7-1 defeat to Germany in their World Cup debut, Dick Advocaat's side responded brilliantly by holding Ecuador to a goalless draw and now head into the final matchday with a genuine chance of reaching the knockout stage.
Côte d'Ivoire are also fighting for qualification after a 1-0 win over Ecuador and a spirited 2-1 defeat to Germany. A win or a draw will see them into the Round of 32.
Expect plenty of tension with so much at stake.
Our prediction: Curacao 1-1 Ivory Coast
Ecuador v Germany
Germany are already through after opening the tournament with a 7-1 demolition of Curaçao before coming from behind to beat Côte d'Ivoire 2-1.
The big question is how many changes Julian Nagelsmann makes with top spot virtually secured.
Ecuador's situation is much more desperate. After arriving unbeaten in 19 matches, they have failed to score in either World Cup game so far, losing to Côte d'Ivoire and drawing with Curaçao.
The South Americans need a result here and a favour elsewhere.
Our prediction: Ecuador 1-1 Germany
Japan v Sweden
Japan have already guaranteed their place in the Round of 32 after a stunning 4-0 victory over Tunisia.
Their fluid attacking football has made them one of the most entertaining teams in the tournament and another positive result could see them top Group F.
Sweden, meanwhile, are still recovering from a bruising 5-1 defeat to the Netherlands and know they need a response if they are to avoid an anxious wait for qualification.
Our prediction: Japan 2-1 Sweden
Tunisia v Netherlands
The Netherlands produced one of the performances of the tournament so far when they dismantled Sweden 5-1.
Cody Gakpo and Brian Brobbey starred as the Dutch took a huge step towards the knockout rounds and they will start as overwhelming favourites against an already-eliminated Tunisia side.
The Tunisians were swept aside 4-0 by Japan and are playing only for pride.
Our prediction: Tunisia 0-3 Netherlands
Paraguay v Australia
This could be one of the most important matches of the day.
Australia know a draw would guarantee qualification for the knockout stage and potentially set up a favourable Round of 32 tie.
The Socceroos bounced back from defeat to the USA by beating Türkiye and now have their fate in their own hands.
Paraguay also remain firmly in contention after defeating Türkiye and know victory would secure their progress.
Our prediction: Paraguay 1-1 Australia
Türkiye v USA
The USA have been one of the most impressive teams in the tournament and have already secured qualification after victories over Australia and Paraguay.
Türkiye, by contrast, have lost both of their matches and have already been eliminated.
That could allow Mauricio Pochettino's side to rotate, but the Americans will still want to maintain momentum heading into the knockout rounds.
Our prediction: Türkiye 1-2 USA
📸 Alexander Hassenstein - 2026 Getty Images
Germany's unexpected World Cup hero has exploded into life in North America
Despite not being a guaranteed starter, Deniz Undav has scored three goals during Germany's perfect start and has emerged as an unlikely contender for the Golden Boot.
With Germany expected to rotate against Ecuador, he could be handed another opportunity to strengthen his growing reputation.
📸 Mario Tama - 2026 Getty Images







































