2026 FIFA World Cup Kicks Off Across North America

2026 FIFA World Cup Kicks Off Across North America
——————————————
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially begun, launching the largest edition in the tournament’s history across the United States, Mexico and Canada.

The opening match was held on June 11 at Mexico City’s iconic Estadio Azteca, where co-host Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in Group A.

This year’s World Cup features 48 teams for the first time, expanded from the previous 32-team format. A total of 104 matches will be played across 16 cities in the three host nations, making it the biggest World Cup ever staged.

The group stage is divided into 12 groups of four teams. The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, will advance to the new round of 32.

The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, with the final scheduled to be played at MetLife Stadium in the New York/New Jersey area.

Among the useful facts of this edition, Mexico becomes the first country to host or co-host the men’s World Cup three times, while Canada is hosting the men’s tournament for the first time.