Netherlands World Cup 2026 Squad Announced: Full List Revealed

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the first edition of the tournament to be staged in three countries. The expanded competition will feature 104 matches in total, making it the largest World Cup in history in terms of game count. The tournament is scheduled to begin on June 11, 2026, with the opening match set between Mexico and South Africa at the historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

The group stage and early rounds will unfold across multiple venues in North America before the knockout phase begins on June 28. From that point, the tournament will move into its elimination format, where every match will carry direct consequences as teams compete for a place in the later rounds. The final is scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium, which will serve as the venue for the decisive match that crowns the world champion.

The 2026 edition will also stand out for its expanded format, which increases the number of participating teams and matches compared with previous World Cups. This new structure is expected to create more opportunities for nations to qualify and to bring additional international attention to the tournament across the host countries. With matches spread across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the event is set to generate significant global interest and large-scale fan engagement throughout the month-long competition.

Estadio Azteca, chosen for the opening match, holds a special place in football history and will once again take center stage when the tournament begins. MetLife Stadium, selected for the final, will host the match that concludes a landmark World Cup edition. The 2026 tournament will be remembered not only for its expanded size but also for its shared hosting model, which reflects the collaborative effort of three nations to stage one of the world’s most-watched sporting events.

As the countdown continues, attention will focus on the official schedule, team qualification, and venue preparations across the host nations. The 2026 FIFA World Cup is expected to draw massive audiences both in stadiums and on television, reinforcing its status as the most prestigious event in international football.