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When is the first World Cup game? Here's everything to know about the soccer tournament, including schedule, match locations and teams. (AP photo)
The group stage takes place from June 11-27. The top teams from each of the 12 groups along with eight third-place teams make up the 32-team knockout-round bracket. The World Cup final is scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The full World Cup match schedule can be found here on FIFA.com.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup finally gets underway this week, and you can follow all of the latest breaking news before Thursday’s opening group-stage game with The Athletic. We’d also love to hear from you before Mexico vs South Africa at the Estadio Azteca on Thursday. Get in touch by emailing live@theathletic.com.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is heading to North America, with matches taking place across the USA, Canada and Mexico. And while that means a huge month of football across some seriously exciting host cities, it also means Dubai fans will need to be a little more strategic with their viewing plans.
FIFA World Cup 2026 schedule: The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the largest ever with 48 teams. Hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the tournament runs from June 11 to July 19. A new format includes 12 groups and a Round of 32 knockout stage.
The World Cup is just 10 days away, with the first two of 104 games slated for June 11. Take a look below for the dates, times and locations for each of the 2026 World Cup matches
Preparations continue as teams continue to arrive in North America and settle into their base camps, while the 16 host stadiums and cities get set for the massive crowds coming in the next few weeks. The United States men's national team opens its World Cup on June 12 against Paraguay in Los Angeles.
The first-ever World Cup to have three host countries will feature 48 teams. Here's a full list of who's playing, when and where. (AP photo)
You've got questions. We've got answers. Here's everything you need to know before the World Cup kicks off Thursday.