The 2026 FIFA World Cup has started. This tournament features 48 teams, making it the largest competition in World Cup history. Matches will take place across North America, from Mexico City and Los Angeles to Toronto and NYC. With more teams and games, there are more opportunities for surprises and exciting moments. Here are ten group-stage matches to watch during the tournament.
1. Mexico vs South Africa
Date: Thursday, June 11, 2026
Kickoff: 3:00 p.m. ET
The tournament kicks off with a rematch of the 2010 World Cup opener. Mexico and South Africa had a 1-1 draw in that match. This time, Mexico plays on home soil at Estadio Azteca in front of 87,000 fans. They haven’t advanced beyond the group stage in recent World Cups and aim for a win to start the competition positively.
2. United States vs Paraguay
Date: Friday, June 12, 2026
Kickoff: 9:00 p.m. ET
The U.S. team hosts Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. The United States team has high expectations, but Paraguay is a tough opponent. They recently achieved significant victories and have the potential to surprise the hosts. An unexpected result could raise concerns for Team USA.
3. Brazil vs Morocco
Date: Saturday, June 13, 2026
Kickoff: 6:00 p.m. ET
Brazil and Morocco face off at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Brazil, a favorite to win, has struggled to advance far in recent tournaments. Morocco, having reached the semifinals in the last World Cup, aims for another strong performance. The outcome is crucial for both teams.
4. Netherlands vs Japan
Date: Sunday, June 14, 2026
Kickoff: 4:00 p.m. ET
Group F features a contest between the Netherlands and Japan at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Analysts view this match as crucial in determining the group leader. The game’s outcome on the tournament’s first weekend could heavily influence both teams’ prospects.
5. England vs Croatia
Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Kickoff: 4:00 p.m. ET
England meets Croatia at AT&T Stadium. England looks to avenge their 2018 World Cup defeat against Croatia, where they lost in the semifinals. The match is a significant challenge, given Croatia’s experienced squad. Both teams aim to start the tournament with a favorable result.
6. Canada vs Switzerland
Date: Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Kickoff: 3:00 p.m. ET
Canada, one of the co-hosts, plays Switzerland at BC Place in Vancouver. This Group B match could decide the group’s top team. Switzerland is a strong contender, but Canada seeks to capitalize on home advantage to secure victory and boost their standings.
7. Germany vs Ecuador
Date: Thursday, June 25, 2026
Kickoff: 4:00 p.m. ET
In Group E, Germany and Ecuador face off at MetLife Stadium. Germany is considered the favorite, but Ecuador’s rising performance poses a challenge. Both teams are likely to vie for the top spot in their group during this final group match.
8. Norway vs France
Date: Friday, June 26, 2026
Kickoff: 3:00 p.m. ET
At Gillette Stadium, Norwegians take on France. France is a World Cup favorite, while Norway is a popular choice as a strong underdog. The match will see top players like Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland in action as both teams contend for group supremacy.
9. Spain vs Uruguay
Date: Friday, June 26, 2026
Kickoff: 8:00 p.m. ET
Spain takes on Uruguay in Guadalajara, Mexico. Both teams likely enter the match undefeated, having faced weaker opponents previously. This game is pivotal for both sides as they strive to top their group and advance confidently.
10. Colombia vs Portugal
Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET
Held at Hard Rock Stadium, Colombia faces Portugal in Group K’s concluding match. With Cristiano Ronaldo leading, Portugal is favored, but Colombia’s past success suggests a competitive match. This game could determine the final group standings for both teams.
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