World Cup Shockers: Uruguay, Tunisia, Türkiye Among 16 Teams Crashing Out as Knockout Battles Begin

The curtain has fallen on the group stage of the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup, and for 16 nations, the dream of lifting football's biggest prize has come to a heartbreaking end.

In one of the most dramatic group phases in World Cup history, traditional football powerhouses including Uruguay, Tunisia, Türkiye, Korea Republic and Scotland suffered stunning eliminations, while first-time participants Uzbekistan and Curaçao bowed out after earning admiration with spirited performances.

With the tournament now shifting into the high-stakes knockout rounds, only 32 teams remain in contention for global glory.

Africa emerged as one of the biggest winners of the group stage, producing an outstanding performance as nine of its 10 representatives secured places in the Round of 32. Tunisia, however, endured a disappointing campaign, finishing bottom of Group F without earning a single point, making them the continent's only casualty.

The list of teams eliminated after the group stage includes Haiti, Tunisia, Türkiye, Jordan, Panama, Qatar, Czechia, Curaçao, Iraq, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, New Zealand, Scotland, Uzbekistan, Korea Republic and IR Iran.

Among the biggest surprises was Uruguay's early exit. The South American giants, who have a rich World Cup history and reached the semi-finals in previous editions, failed to win a match, finishing third in Group H with just two points.

Korea Republic also fell short despite a determined campaign, ending third in Group A behind Mexico and South Africa, while Scotland and Türkiye were unable to secure the results needed to advance.

Although debutants Uzbekistan and Curaçao exited the competition, both teams earned widespread praise for their fearless displays against more experienced opponents, suggesting a bright future on the international stage.

Attention now turns to the knockout phase, which begins on Sunday, where the remaining 32 nations will battle for coveted places in the Round of 16. With every match now a winner-takes-all affair, the race to become world champions promises even more drama, surprises and unforgettable moments.