The group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially concluded — the WC 2026 match schedule (Kyiv time) has been completed in full, and all 32 Round of 32 pairings have been determined. This afternoon's digest covers the key events of the final night that the morning roundup did not have time to address in full.
Kane breaks England record, Bellingham youngest assist provider
In the Panama vs. England match (0:2), which concluded overnight at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Thomas Tuchel's side comfortably topped Group L. Goals were scored by Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane — both in the second half. Kane headed the ball into the net from a Bellingham delivery and set an all-time record: 11 goals at World Cups — more than any other player in England's history. Heading into the match, he had shared the record with Gary Lineker.
Bellingham (22 years and 363 days old) became the youngest England player in official records (since 1966) to both score and provide an assist in the same World Cup match. Jordan Henderson came on as a substitute and set another record — he became the first player to appear in seven major tournaments for England (World Cups and Euros). Defender Jarell Quansah sustained an ankle injury after receiving a yellow card and left the pitch early — his condition is yet to be confirmed.
Steve Clarke resigns following Scotland's elimination
Immediately after Scotland's elimination from the group stage was confirmed, head coach Steve Clarke announced his resignation. The decision was confirmed by FIFA in its news feed on June 28. Scotland failed to advance to the Round of 32 — the team finished the group stage without enough points to qualify as one of the best third-placed sides.
Croatia edge Ghana, DR Congo advance from behind
In the same Group L, Croatia defeated Ghana (2:1) and advanced to the knockout stage. Meanwhile, DR Congo came from behind to beat Uzbekistan (3:1), securing their place in the Round of 32 — where they will face England at the stadium in Atlanta. Colombia and Portugal drew (0:0) in Group K: more on that match and the Argentina vs. Jordan fixture — in our overnight report.
WC 2026 schedule (Kyiv time): Round of 32 starts today
The knockout stage begins today, June 28. The first Round of 32 match — Canada vs. South Africa at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles — kicks off at 22:00 Kyiv time. The WC 2026 schedule (Kyiv time) continues as follows: June 29 — Brazil vs. Japan (20:00), Germany vs. Paraguay (23:30), Netherlands vs. Morocco (04:00 on June 30). The full knockout schedule — from the Round of 32 through to the final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium — is available on our website.
Tonight — Canada vs. South Africa (22:00 Kyiv time); a detailed preview will follow in the preview section.
