The 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage is heading into its decisive final round, with several countries facing the prospect of an early exit if results do not go their way.

With qualification places still up for grabs, a number of teams must secure positive results in their last group matches to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive.

Here are five countries under the most pressure heading into the final round of fixtures.

South Africa

South Africa’s World Cup campaign hangs in the balance ahead of Thursday’s crucial encounter with South Korea.

Bafana Bafana know that anything less than a victory could leave them packing their bags before the knockout rounds begin. After an inconsistent start to the tournament, South Africa need all three points to give themselves a realistic chance of advancing from their group.

The pressure will be firmly on the African side as they attempt to keep their World Cup dream alive against a South Korean team also battling for qualification.

Ecuador

Ecuador are another nation staring at a potential group-stage elimination.

The South Americans face one of the toughest assignments of the final round as they take on Germany. A failure to secure victory could see Ecuador’s tournament come to an abrupt end.

Germany’s pedigree and experience on the world stage make the challenge even more daunting for Ecuador, who must produce one of their best performances of the tournament to remain in contention.

Belgium

Belgium also find themselves in a precarious position heading into their last group fixture.

The Red Devils could be eliminated if they fail to defeat New Zealand in their final match. Despite entering the tournament with high expectations, Belgium have yet to fully convince and now face a high-stakes showdown against the Oceania representatives.

A win would significantly boost their chances of progression, while a draw or defeat could spell the end of their World Cup journey.

Uruguay

Two-time world champions Uruguay have little room for error as they prepare to face Spain.

The South Americans could be knocked out if they lose the match. Even a draw may not be enough if either Saudi Arabia or Cape Verde secure victories in their respective final group games.

That scenario leaves Uruguay needing at least a positive result against one of the tournament favourites while keeping a close eye on developments elsewhere in the group.

Senegal

Senegal’s hopes of reaching the knockout rounds also depend on a strong finish.

The African side must defeat Iraq in their final group match to avoid the risk of elimination. Anything less than three points would send the Teranga Lions out of the competition.

With qualification still within reach, Senegal know victory is the simplest route to extending their stay at the tournament.

Vanguard News

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