CHM-2026: Sensations, collapses, and a new balance of power
In the second round of the group stage, for the first time in the history of the World Cup, 48 teams competed under conditions of unpredictability. The favorites lost points, while the underdogs proved themselves as world-class teams. Let’s take a look at the key results and the current standings.
**Key matches of the day:**
• Argentina 2:1 Canada (Group A) – A decisive goal in the 78th minute broke the resistance of the hosts.
• England 4:1 Iran (Group B) – Bellingham scored three goals, and the “three lions” dominated the game.
• Brazil 2:3 Serbia (Group D) – The Balkan teams achieved a tactical victory in Dallas.
• Germany 1:1 Japan (Group E) – The Asian team managed to keep a draw after a late goal.
**Standings after 2 rounds:**
Group A: 1. Argentina (6 points), 2. Canada (3 points), 3. Morocco (3 points), 4. New Zealand (0 points)
Group B: 1. England (6 points), 2. USA (3 points), 3. Wales (3 points), 4. Iran (0 points)
Group D: 1. Serbia (4 points), 2. Brazil (3 points), 3. Switzerland (3 points), 4. Cameroon (1 point)
Group E: 1. Spain (6 points), 2. Japan (4 points), 3. Germany (1 point), 4. Costa Rica (0 points)
**Analysis:** The new format (12 groups of 4 teams) has made the competition even more intense. By the end of the first two rounds, 10 teams were mathematically guaranteed to qualify for the next round. However, six of the favorites were on the brink of elimination. In the final round, every substitution, every mistake, and every blunder could change the outcome of the tournament.
Keep an eye on updates – the World Cup is still in full swing.