Knockout path scenarios
This is a Group G, Matchday 1 fixture. The knockout bracket implications depend on where each team finishes in the group.
Iran
If Iran wins Group G
Round of 32: vs 3rd Place (TBD)
Match 81 · July 1 · Lumen Field
If Iran finishes 2nd
Round of 32: vs Runner-up Group D
Match 86 · July 3 · AT&T Stadium
New Zealand
If New Zealand wins Group G
Round of 32: vs 3rd Place (TBD)
Match 81 · July 1 · Lumen Field
If New Zealand finishes 2nd
Round of 32: vs Runner-up Group D
Match 86 · July 3 · AT&T Stadium
Third-place scenarios
Even finishing 3rd is not necessarily elimination. The 8 best third-placed teams (out of 12 groups) advance to the Round of 32. A third-place finish with 3+ points and a neutral or positive goal difference would likely be enough to qualify. Third-placed teams are always paired against group winners in the Round of 32.