World Cup 2026: Full match schedule, groups, teams and start times | World Cup 2026 News
FIFA World Cup 2026 Set to Commence
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is poised to begin after extensive planning and significant anticipation. The tournament is notably the largest in World Cup history, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The 23rd edition of the tournament will feature an expanded format, accommodating 48 teams across 104 matches. The opening match will take place on June 11 at 1 PM CST at the Mexico City Stadium, where Mexico will face South Africa.
Argentina, the reigning champions from Qatar 2022, will seek to defend their title. The tournament is expected to attract global attention as teams vie for the prestigious trophy.
In preparation for the event, Al Jazeera has compiled a comprehensive guide detailing team lineups, group placements, tournament format, and match schedules.
Groups and Teams
Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Korea Republic, Czechia
Group B: Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Qatar, Switzerland
Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland
Group D: United States, Paraguay, Australia, Turkiye
Group E: Germany, Curacao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador
Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia
Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand
Group H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay
Group I: France, Senegal, Iraq, Norway
Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan
Group K: Portugal, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, Colombia
Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama
Key Match Details
Opening Match:
- Date: June 11
- Time: 1 PM CST (19:00 GMT)
- Location: Mexico City Stadium
Final Match:
- Date: July 19
- Time: 3 PM ET (19:00 GMT)
- Location: MetLife Stadium (renamed New York New Jersey Stadium during the tournament)
Venue Names
In an effort to mitigate ambush marketing by brands not affiliated with FIFA, several stadiums will sport modified names. This includes the rebranding of MetLife Stadium and SoFi Stadium to reflect their host cities.
Tournament Format
The tournament’s structure consists of one group stage followed by four knockout rounds, with the knockout phase beginning at the round of 32. This adjustment marks a departure from previous editions, enhancing the competitive format.
Tournament Schedule Breakdown:
- Group Stage: June 11 – June 27
- Round of 32: June 28 – July 3
- Round of 16: July 4 – 7
- Quarterfinals: July 9 – 11
- Semifinals: July 14 – 15
- Bronze Medal Match: July 18
- Final: July 19
Full Match Schedule Highlights
Thursday, June 11
- Mexico vs South Africa at 1 PM CST (19:00 GMT)
- South Korea vs Czechia at 8 PM CST (02:00 GMT Friday)
Friday, June 12
- Canada vs Bosnia at 3 PM ET (19:00 GMT)
- USA vs Paraguay at 6 PM PT (01:00 GMT Saturday)
Next Steps and Expectations
As the opening match approaches, the world’s focus shifts to the rivalry, sportsmanship, and passion that define the FIFA World Cup. Fans and teams alike prepare for an unforgettable event. For continuous updates, Al Jazeera will provide real-time commentary and insights throughout the tournament.
