With just four months remaining, the FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be the biggest edition in history. Co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, the tournament will feature 48 teams, 104 matches, and 16 host cities. While 42 nations have already qualified, the race for the remaining spots continues
The countdown of the FIFA World Cup 2026 has begun. Pic/AFP
The countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 has officially begun. With just four months remaining, anticipation is reaching fever pitch as Canada, Mexico, and the United States prepare to co-host what promises to be the biggest and most inclusive edition in the tournament’s history.
For the first time ever, 48 teams will compete for football’s most prestigious prize, expanding the global stage and giving more nations the opportunity to chase World Cup glory. The tournament, that is set to kicked off on June 12, 2026, will feature 104 matches across 16 cities spread over three countries.
Six teams yet to qualify for FIFA World Cup 2026
So far, 42 teams have secured their place, while six final spots are still up for grabs. Nations across every confederation continue their qualification campaigns, with dreams alive and hopes soaring. From traditional powerhouses to emerging football nations, the expanded format has already ensured greater global representation.
Excitement is building steadily as fans eagerly await the final lineup.
Group Stage Overview
Group A
- Mexico
- South Africa
- Korea Republic
- DEN/MKD/CZE/IRL
Group B
- Canada
- Qatar
- Switzerland
- ITA/NIR/WAL/BIH
Group C
- Brazil
- Morocco
- Haiti
- Scotland
Group D
- USA
- Paraguay
- Australia
- TUR/ROU/SVK/KOS
Group E
- Germany
- Curacao
- Côte d'Ivoire
- Ecuador
Group F
- Netherlands
- Japan
- Tunisia
- UKR/SWE/POL/ALB
Group G
- Belgium
- Egypt
- IR Iran
- New Zealand
Group H
- Spain
- Cabo Verde
- Saudi Arabia
- Uruguay
Group I
- BOL/SUR/IRQ
- France
- Senegal
- Norway
Group J
- Argentina
- Algeria
- Austria
- Jordan
Group K
- NCL/JAM/COD
- Portugal
- Uzbekistan
- Colombia
Group L
- England
- Croatia
- Ghana
- Panama
Opening Fixtures
The tournament will begin with a high-energy clash in Group A, as co-host Mexico takes on South Africa in the opening match. The second fixture will see Korea Republic face the winner of DEN/MKD/CZE/IRL, setting the tone for what promises to be an action-packed start to the competition.
Trophy Tour: Bringing the world together
Adding to the excitement, the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola has already begun its global journey. The tour kicked off on January 3, 2026, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking the start of a worldwide celebration.
The iconic FIFA World Cup Original Trophy will visit 30 FIFA Member Associations, covering 75 stops across more than 150 days. The initiative offers fans a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness football’s most coveted prize up close a powerful reminder of the unity and passion the sport inspires across continents.
With expanded participation, multiple host nations, and a festival-like atmosphere expected across North America, the 2026 edition is shaping up to be historic in every sense.
The wait is almost over. The world is ready. Football is coming home not to one nation, but to an entire continent.
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