The 2026 FIFA World Cup has witnessed its first two nations secure berths in the Round of 32. Both co-hosts, Mexico and the United States, have punched their tickets to the knockout phase, delighting home fans.
The USA became the second team to qualify after a convincing 2-0 victory over Australia in a Group D clash held at Seattle Stadium. An own goal from Cameron Burgess and a strike by Alex Freeman sealed the win for the Americans.
With two wins from two matches, the United States sits atop Group D with six points, already assured of a place in the last 32. Their final group stage encounter is set for next Friday against Turkey.
Mexico had earlier secured its spot by edging past South Korea 1-0 in a tightly contested match on Friday. The Mexican side joins their co-host nation in the next round, marking a successful campaign for both North American teams.
As the tournament progresses, other nations will look to join these two in the knockout stage, with plenty of action still to come.