FIFA World Cup 2026 Group Stage Preview: Thursday’s Six Matches Assessed⚽⤵️👇

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The final round of Group D, E and F fixtures promises plenty of drama, with qualification places still to be decided. Based on tournament strength, recent performances and tactical match-ups, here are the predicted outcomes and correct scores for all six matches.

Ecuador vs Germany

Germany have looked every bit one of the stronger European sides, comfortably beating Curaçao before edging Ivory Coast. Ecuador have defended reasonably well but have lacked creativity, scoring no goals in their opening two matches.

Germany should dominate possession and eventually break Ecuador down, although Ecuador are organised enough to keep the score respectable.

Prediction: Germany win

Correct score: Ecuador 0-2 Germany



Curaçao vs Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast have shown greater quality throughout the group stage, combining physical strength with pace in attack. Curaçao have battled hard but have struggled against stronger opponents.

Expect Ivory Coast to control the match without needing to chase a large victory.

Prediction: Ivory Coast win

Correct score: Curaçao 0-2 Ivory Coast



Japan vs Sweden

This is arguably the tightest game of the day. Japan responded brilliantly after drawing with the Netherlands by thrashing Tunisia, while Sweden have mixed an emphatic win over Tunisia with a heavy defeat to the Dutch.

Japan’s movement, technical quality and quick transitions give them a slight advantage, but Sweden remain dangerous from crosses and set pieces.

Prediction: Japan win

Correct score: Japan 2-1 Sweden



Tunisia vs Netherlands

The Netherlands have been among the most impressive attacking teams in the tournament, collecting four points from two difficult fixtures. Tunisia have conceded heavily in both matches and now face another stern test.

The Dutch should have too much quality across the pitch.

Prediction: Netherlands win

Correct score: Tunisia 0-3 Netherlands



Paraguay vs Australia

Both teams remain capable of progressing, making this a tense encounter. Paraguay recovered well after their opening defeat by beating Türkiye, while Australia have already shown they can compete physically.

This looks likely to be decided by a single goal.

Prediction: Paraguay win

Correct score: Paraguay 1-0 Australia



Türkiye vs United States

The United States have produced two convincing victories and look well balanced in every area of the pitch. Türkiye have yet to pick up a point and have struggled to convert possession into clear chances.

The Americans should have enough athleticism and attacking quality to secure top spot.

Prediction: United States win

Correct score: Türkiye 1-2 United States



Predicted Results

– Ecuador 0-2 Germany
– Curaçao 0-2 Ivory Coast
– Japan 2-1 Sweden
– Tunisia 0-3 Netherlands
– Paraguay 1-0 Australia
– Türkiye 1-2 United States

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