2026 World Cup Kicks Off Expanded Tournament with New Format and Global Schedule

The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is set to be the most expansive tournament in its history. This year's event will feature an increased field of 48 national teams, competing in 104 matches across 16 venues. This represents a significant expansion from previous editions, which typically included 32 teams.

A key change for the 2026 tournament is the modified game format. Teams will now need to play eight matches to secure the championship title, an increase from the seven matches required in prior World Cups. The group stage will see teams play each other once, with the top two from each group advancing, along with the eight best third-placed teams, to a new 32-team knockout stage.

Sunday, June 21, marks the eleventh day of the tournament, featuring four matches across groups G and H. The day's schedule kicks off at 1 p.m. Argentine time with Spain facing Saudi Arabia in Atlanta, followed by Belgium versus Iran in Los Angeles at 4 p.m. Later, Uruguay will play Cabo Verde in Miami Gardens at 7 p.m., and New Zealand will face Egypt in Vancouver at 10 p.m.

Historically, Brazil leads the pack as the most successful nation in World Cup history, with five titles. Germany and Italy follow closely with four championships each. Argentina ranks as the third most successful team, having won the tournament three times. France and Uruguay have each claimed the title twice, while England and Spain have each won it once.