Knockout path scenarios
This is a Group I, Matchday 1 fixture. The knockout bracket implications depend on where each team finishes in the group.
Iraq
If Iraq wins Group I
Round of 32: vs 3rd Place (TBD)
Match 78 · June 30 · MetLife Stadium
If Iraq finishes 2nd
Round of 32: vs Runner-up Group E
Match 77 · June 30 · AT&T Stadium
Norway
If Norway wins Group I
Round of 32: vs 3rd Place (TBD)
Match 78 · June 30 · MetLife Stadium
If Norway finishes 2nd
Round of 32: vs Runner-up Group E
Match 77 · June 30 · 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.