The 2026 World Cup will feature an expanded 48-team format for the first time, with nations divided into 12 groups. Co-hosts Mexico, the United States and Canada are top seeds in Groups A, B and D respectively. Scotland are in Group C alongside Brazil, Morocco and Haiti, while England are placed in Group L with Croatia, Ghana and Panama.
The top two teams from each group will advance to a new round of 32, along with the eight best third-placed sides. With 104 matches in total—40 more than in 2022—just three points could be enough for some teams to reach the knockout stages.
The tournament opened at Mexico City's Azteca Stadium, a venue steeped in history. It hosted Diego Maradona's famous 'Hand of God' and solo goal against England in 1986, as well as two World Cup finals: Brazil's 4-1 win over Italy in 1970 and Argentina's 3-2 victory over West Germany in 1986.
Mexico and Canada will each host 13 games, while the United States stages 78 matches. From the quarter-finals onward, all games will be played in the US, culminating in the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are expected to feature in what may be their last World Cup appearances. England's new golden generation, defending champions Argentina, France's deep squad and Spain's young side are among the favourites for the title.
