The 2026 FIFA World Cup has recorded its first set of eliminations as three teams have officially been knocked out of the tournament following the conclusion of early group-stage matches.
The development comes as the competition enters a decisive phase where results are beginning to confirm which countries will advance to the knockout round and which will return home.
Three national teams have now been eliminated after failing to gather enough points in their opening group games to stay in contention for qualification to the Round of 32.
Tunisia, Haiti and South Africa are among the sides confirmed to have exited the tournament after a series of disappointing results in their respective groups.
Tunisia became the first team to suffer elimination after a heavy defeat to Japan, which ended their hopes of progressing further in the competition.
Haiti’s campaign also came to an end after consecutive losses, including a defeat to Brazil that sealed their early exit from the tournament.
South Africa were also knocked out after struggling in a tough group that included Mexico and other strong opponents.
The expanded format of the 2026 World Cup means 32 teams now advance to the knockout stage, including the best third-placed teams from all groups.
Despite the larger number of qualifying spots, the early exits show that weaker sides still face a difficult challenge against top-ranked nations.
Attention now shifts to the remaining group-stage matches as teams continue to battle for qualification spots in the Round of 32.