The 2026 FIFA World Cup will kick off on June 11 with the opening match between Mexico and South Africa in Mexico City. [1, 2, 3] The tournament will feature 48 teams playing 104 matches across venues in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. [1, 4, 3]
Provisional squad lists of 35 to 55 players per nation were to be submitted to FIFA by May 11. [3] Final 26-player squads must be submitted by June 1 and will be officially announced on June 2. [3]
Power rankings released May 12 put Spain as the top favorite to win the tournament, followed by France coached by Didier Deschamps in his final World Cup. [1, 4] Francesco Porzio of CBS Sports said, "With one month left, the side coached by Luis de la Fuente still need to be considered as the most likely candidate to win the tournament." [4]
Spain’s teenage winger Lamine Yamal suffered a hamstring injury but is expected to recover in time for the tournament. [1, 4] France holds second place in the rankings as they prepare for Deschamps’ last tournament. [1, 4]
Defending champions Argentina enter with mental strength, led by Lionel Messi who will appear in his sixth World Cup. Yet the team faces challenges with lack of depth in some positions and recurring injuries among defenders. [2]
Group stage draws place Spain in Group H alongside Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay. [1, 4, 3] The United States are in Group D with Australia, Paraguay, and Türkiye. [4, 3]
The tournament will provide a global soccer showcase, culminating with the final match after 104 total games. [4] The official squad announcements due June 2 will set the stage for teams to finalize preparations ahead of the June 11 opening.
