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23 Jun 2026 | Sportsbetting

World Cup 2026 Matchday Prediction – Matchday 3

World Cup 2026 Matchday 3: The moment of truth! Who will make it to the knockout stage – and who will be heading home? Read the predictions at MERKUR BETS!

approx. 5 min.
World Cup 2026 Matchday Prediction – Matchday 3

Matchday 3 of the 2026 World Cup brings the decisive moment: who will advance to the knockout stage and who will have to pack their bags? From 24 to 28 June, everything is at stake. The matches within each group will be played simultaneously. While some teams have already secured qualification and are now only competing for top spot in the group, others are still fighting for their place in the next round. At MERKUR BETS, we have analysed all the decisive fixtures. Read our selected tips and predictions for the final group-stage matchday now.

World Cup Tips Matchday 3: Overview of the Quick Predictions

Switzerland and Canada go into this final group-stage matchday level on points, so everything is on the line. Switzerland are among the favourites to win Group B and will be looking to wrap things up in style. Canada are full of confidence after their 6–0 victory over Qatar and are eager for another triumph. The Swiss have the stronger individual quality and will be determined to show it on the pitch.

Prediction: 1

After a difficult tournament so far, the Czech Republic desperately need a win to keep their hopes alive. Mexico, meanwhile, have started the tournament strongly as co-hosts and are aiming to finish the group stage as group winners. They have greater individual quality and, backed by their home supporters, will do everything possible to win this match.

Prediction: 2

Despite a mixed tournament so far, Brazil are simply too strong to be eliminated in the group stage. The Seleção have enough attacking quality to overcome a defensively well-organised Scotland side. The Scots will fight passionately and leave everything on the pitch, but Brazil’s creative attacking line should prove decisive. Brazil need the win to secure their place in the knockout stage.

Prediction: 2

Germany have already secured qualification for the knockout stage and can no longer be displaced from top spot in the group. Julian Nagelsmann’s side go into this match as clear favourites. Ecuador are physically strong, often sit deep defensively and look to strike on the counter-attack. Nevertheless, Germany will be aiming for victory, as the DFB team want to enter the knockout phase full of confidence and momentum.

Prediction: 2

Japan have been one of the positive surprises of the tournament, impressing with quick transitions and relentless work rate. Sweden, on the other hand, need to rebuild confidence after their heavy 5–1 defeat – the efficiency and goal threat that defined their early performances were nowhere to be seen recently. Even so, both teams are well-drilled and difficult to break down. We expect a closely contested encounter.

Prediction: X

This World Cup has already shown on several occasions that surprises are always possible. Paraguay recently defeated Türkiye, proving there is more to this team than many initially expected. Australia are defensively solid and difficult to play against, but Paraguay come into this match with momentum and hunger. That is why we are backing the underdogs.

Prediction: 1

France are among the leading contenders for the World Cup title and have every chance of wrapping things up in this group. However, Norway, with Haaland and Ødegaard, are no easy opponent and are capable of beating anyone. It should be an intense encounter, but the depth of the French squad is likely to make the difference. A point against France would already be a positive result for Norway.

Prediction: 2

Cape Verde have already made this World Cup a success story. Their draw against European champions Spain was a sensation, and they also showed against Uruguay that they should never be written off. Saudi Arabia are not to be underestimated, but Cape Verde enter this final match full of confidence. Anything is possible at this World Cup. We therefore believe the underdogs can actually claim victory here and secure a place in the Round of 32.

Prediction: 1

Belgium will be looking to make a statement after a disappointing tournament so far. New Zealand are clear underdogs at this level and have shown few signs of being able to trouble Belgium seriously in this group. The Red Devils have a straightforward task ahead of them and should complete it comfortably. Anything other than a convincing Belgian victory would be another unwelcome surprise for the Europeans.

Prediction: 2

Portugal enter this match as favourites, but Colombia are an awkward side with plenty of pace and creativity in attack. Luis Díaz and James Rodríguez can cause real problems in and around the opposition penalty area. Portugal have greater depth and experience overall, although they have struggled to find their rhythm in this tournament. We expect a balanced contest.

Prediction: X

An intriguing clash between two teams who are both considered outsiders in Group K. DR Congo are physically strong and demonstrated against Portugal that they are far more than just a respectable opponent. Uzbekistan have impressed with technically accomplished football. Both sides need a win. We expect a tight match, with DR Congo narrowly coming out on top.

Prediction: 1

Austria have shown throughout this group that they are a team to be taken seriously. They will be looking to finish the group stage with a victory. Algeria, however, should not be underestimated, especially if they take an early lead and can focus on counter-attacks. Nevertheless, the Austrian national team have greater tactical quality and possess dangerous attacking players capable of delivering at this level. We are predicting an Austrian win.

Prediction: 2

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