Wednesday brings the first day of the third round of group stage fixtures. For some teams, this will be their final appearance at the 2026 World Cup, with Haiti already eliminated and at least two of the other 11 teams set to join them.
The stakes are high for everyone other than Haiti and Mexico. The Mexicans have already secured top spot in Group A, while the top two teams remain level on points in both Group B and Group C.
Switzerland vs Canada
The winner tops the group. Switzerland and Canada have combined for 12 goals in two matches. Switzerland have only been held goalless twice since 2024, and Canada have a pair of in-form forwards in Cyle Larin and Jonathan David.
These teams could play cautiously, but that would go against everything we have seen from both sides so far. This looks like it should be an entertaining encounter, and we would be tempted to back the over 3.5, too.
Pick: Both teams to score
Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar
Bosnia and Herzegovina have been far more pragmatic than explosive through two matches. They did not score until the 93rd minute against Switzerland and spent most of their match against Canada simply holding on. That conservative approach is nothing new either, as Bosnia and Herzegovina have scored just six goals across their last seven matches.
Qatar rode some luck to draw with Switzerland and were blown away by Canada. They are overmatched here, but should be able to avoid another lopsided defeat as long as they stay disciplined and avoid red cards. With Bosnia unlikely to push the tempo, this projects as a relatively low-scoring match.
Pick: Bosnia and Herzegovina to win and under 3.5 total goals
Morocco vs Haiti
Morocco's success in 2022 and at the start of this World Cup has been built around a steely defense. They also have the creative talent to break down a low Haitian block, though, and should win this one without much trouble.
Haiti have been more competitive than some expected coming into the tournament, but motivation could be an issue with nothing left to play for here.
Pick: Morocco -1.5
Brazil vs Scotland
Scotland were never going to trade blows with Brazil. Knowing a draw is probably enough to advance, Steve Clarke's side are likely to sit deep and try to frustrate Carlo Ancelotti's team.
It has not been the most impressive start for Brazil. The attack was nullified by Morocco, and hopes of a hammering of Haiti did not materialize, with the expectant fans having to settle for a 3-0 victory.
Pick: Brazil to win or draw and under 3.5 total goals
South Africa vs South Korea
South Africa have not been good. South Korea, meanwhile, can count themselves unlucky not to have already qualified. They beat Czechia in a hard-fought match and could easily have gotten the better of Mexico in Zapopan.
South Africa are forced to chase this result, knowing only a win will do. That should play right into South Korea's hands, giving them plenty of room to exploit on the counter.
Pick: South Korea to win
Mexico vs Czechia
Mexico have kept two clean sheets so far. South Korea created plenty of chances against them on matchday two, though, and Mexico can afford to relax here knowing they have already secured the group.
Czechia, on the other hand, are fighting for their World Cup future. A draw probably will not be enough, so they will need to push for a result. Mexico are likely to rotate the lineup, giving some reserve attackers a chance to make a case for more playing time in the knockout rounds.
Pick: Both teams to score
If this was your kind of read, you’ll like what’s next. Get The Sandman Ticket, our free, weekly newsletter with picks, insights, and a little bit of everything we love about sports.
