Knockout path scenarios
This is a Group K, Matchday 1 fixture. The knockout bracket implications depend on where each team finishes in the group.
Portugal
If Portugal wins Group K
Round of 32: vs 3rd Place (TBD)
Match 88 · July 3 · Arrowhead Stadium
If Portugal finishes 2nd
Round of 32: vs 2nd Group L
Match 84 · July 2 · BMO Field
DR Congo
If DR Congo wins Group K
Round of 32: vs 3rd Place (TBD)
Match 88 · July 3 · Arrowhead Stadium
If DR Congo finishes 2nd
Round of 32: vs 2nd Group L
Match 84 · July 2 · BMO Field
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.