2026 FIFA World Cup: Groups, Schedule, Teams & Everything You Need to Know

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be a historic event as it will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the first time the tournament will feature three host nations. With a total of 48 teams competing, this World Cup promises to deliver thrilling matches and showcase the best talent from around the globe. The USA team finds itself in a competitive Group D alongside Paraguay, Australia, and Türkiye, raising expectations for exciting performances. As fans gear up for this monumental tournament, the stage is being set for unforgettable moments on soccer's biggest stage.

2026 World Cup: Key Facts

StartJune 11, 2026
FinalJuly 19, 2026
Host NationsUnited States, Canada and Mexico
Teams48 nations (12 groups of 4)
Matches104 total
US BroadcastFox, FS1 and Telemundo

2026 World Cup Groups (A to L)

Group A: Mexico · South Africa · South Korea · Czech Republic

Group B: Canada · Bosnia & Herzegovina · Qatar · Switzerland

Group C: Brazil · Morocco · Haiti · Scotland

Group D: USA · Paraguay · Australia · Türkiye

Group E: Germany · Curaçao · Ivory Coast · Ecuador

Group F: Netherlands · Japan · Sweden · Tunisia

Group G: Belgium · Egypt · Iran · New Zealand

Group H: Spain · Cape Verde Islands · Saudi Arabia · Uruguay

Group I: France · Senegal · Iraq · Norway

Group J: Argentina · Algeria · Austria · Jordan

Group K: Portugal · Colombia · Uzbekistan · Congo DR

Group L: England · Croatia · Ghana · Panama

USA Soccer at the 2026 World Cup

DateKickoff (ET)MatchVenueStage
06/11/20263:00 PM ETMexico vs South AfricaEstadio AztecaGroup Stage 1
06/12/20263:00 PM ETCanada vs Bosnia & HerzegovinaBMO FieldGroup Stage 1
06/12/20269:00 PM ETUSA vs ParaguaySoFi StadiumGroup Stage 1
06/18/20266:00 PM ETCanada vs QatarBC PlaceGroup Stage 2
06/18/20269:00 PM ETMexico vs South KoreaEstadio AkronGroup Stage 2
06/19/20263:00 PM ETUSA vs AustraliaLumen FieldGroup Stage 2
06/24/20263:00 PM ETSwitzerland vs CanadaBC PlaceGroup Stage 3
06/24/20269:00 PM ETCzech Republic vs MexicoEstadio AztecaGroup Stage 3
06/25/202610:00 PM ETTürkiye vs USASoFi StadiumGroup Stage 3

The inclusion of 48 teams in the 2026 World Cup signifies a significant expansion from previous tournaments, allowing more nations a chance to compete at the highest level. Group D presents a mix of challenges for the USA, with Paraguay and Australia both having solid records in international play, while Türkiye adds an intriguing dynamic. The matches will not only test the skills and strategies of the US team but will also serve as a litmus test for the growth of soccer in the country as they aim to make a deep run in the tournament. Fans are eagerly anticipating how the USA will measure up against their group rivals in this pivotal moment for American soccer.

Frequently Asked Questions — 2026 FIFA World Cup

What is the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

What is the 2026 FIFA World Cup? The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the upcoming edition of the international soccer tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This tournament will be historic as it features an expanded format with 48 teams competing for the coveted trophy.

How many teams are in the 2026 World Cup?

How many teams are in the 2026 World Cup? The 2026 World Cup will have 48 teams, an increase from the previous 32-team format, allowing more nations to participate and compete on the world stage.

When does the 2026 World Cup start?

When does the 2026 World Cup start? The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to kick off on June 11, 2026, with the opening match featuring Mexico against South Africa at the iconic Estadio Azteca.

Where can I watch the 2026 World Cup in the US?

Where can I watch the 2026 World Cup in the US? In the United States, fans can catch all the action of the 2026 World Cup on Fox, FS1, and Telemundo, providing comprehensive coverage of the tournament.

When does USA play at the 2026 World Cup?

When does USA play at the 2026 World Cup? The USA will play their first match against Paraguay on June 12, 2026, at SoFi Stadium, followed by matches against Australia on June 19 and Türkiye on June 25.

Follow all World Cup matches and global soccer live in our Where to Watch section, with kickoff times (ET), channels, and lineups updated daily.

Vinicius Balbino

I am an independent journalist dedicated to producing clear, accurate, and relevant information, always with a critical perspective and a strong professional commitment to the truth, consistently delivering up-to-date news on the portal watchlivetoday.com.