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2026 FIFA World Cup Schedule: Important Dates and Match Stages

From Tempo · () Indonesian

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature a record 48 teams and 104 matches across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
  • The tournament kicks off on June 11 with Mexico facing South Africa at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
  • Key knockout stage matches, including the final on July 19, have designated venues in the U.S.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be the largest in history, expanding to a 48-team format with a total of 104 matches. Co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, this tournament marks a significant shift in scale and structure.

The group stage will consist of 12 groups of four teams. The top two finishers from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, will advance to the newly introduced Round of 32, initiating the knockout phase for the first time ever.

The tournament's opening match is scheduled for June 11, featuring a rematch of the 2010 World Cup opener between Mexico and South Africa at the historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. On the same day, Czechia will play South Korea at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara.

Key dates for the knockout stages have been announced, with the Round of 32 taking place from June 28 to July 3, followed by the Round of 16 from July 4-7. The quarterfinals are set for July 9-11, and the semifinals will be held on July 14-15. The third-place game is scheduled for July 18, and the grand final will be played on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Tempo. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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