Debatable VAR call, a fairy-tale that continues, and a goalfest in Group I: World Cup knockouts taking shape

Last Updated on 27 June 2026

Three groups wrapped up on Friday evening in some of the most dramatic group-stage football this World Cup has produced. One nation confirmed one of the most remarkable qualification stories in the tournament’s history.

Another had a Ballon d’Or winner score a first-half hat-trick in 32 minutes. A third group saw a debatable VAR decision spark fury.

And when all six final whistles had blown, the World Cup Round of 32 picture was considerably clearer but not fully resolved. In case you need a guide on the permutations of the final day, check this out.

The Results: heroics, history and a VAR controversy

Starting in Group G, Egypt and Belgium both confirmed their places in the Round of 32 though not without controversy. Egypt drew 1-1 with Iran, with Iran seeing a stoppage-time winner disallowed by VAR for a terribly confusing offside call. Iran felt robbed.

Simultaneously, Belgium swept past New Zealand 5-1 in Vancouver, with Lois Openda scoring twice in an emphatic closing performance. Belgium climbed to the top, Egypt finished second, with Iran in third and New Zealand eliminated.

In Group H, Cape Verde confirmed their place in Round of 32 and football found its feel-good story of the tournament. They drew 0-0 with Saudi Arabia to go unbeaten. Spain beat Uruguay 1-0 to win the group to eliminate Uruguay who join Saudi Arabia on their way out.

Group I, however, produced the night’s most extraordinary football. Ousmane Dembele scored three times in the first half becoming the first player to score a first-half World Cup hat-trick since 1994 as France dismantled a rotated Norway side 4-1.

Meanwhile, Senegal demolished 10-man Iraq 5-0, with Pape Gueye scoring twice as a substitute and Iraq defender Rebin Sulaka sent off by VAR in the 12th minute. Senegal needed to win big to go through, and they did exactly that in their rout of Iraq.

Who’s through, who’s waiting and what comes next in the World Cup?

From Groups G, H and I, six of the eight spots are decided. Egypt, Belgium, Spain, Cape Verde, France and Norway are all confirmed, while Senegal qualified as one of the eight best third-placed teams.

Iran sit in third in Group G on three points but their fate depends entirely on how other groups resolve. They will need at least one of Croatia, Algeria and DR Congo to lose their final games. With the final day of games left, there are still a few places up for grabs.

But more importantly, there are fantastic matches already set in stone for the next round. Cape Verde’s story keeps on getting crazier, as the tiny nation are set to take on the defending champions, Argentina. After keeping Spain, to a draw, can they do the impossible, again?