Another day brings four more World Cup 2026 matches to enjoy. European champions Spain begin their campaign against tournament debutants Cape Verde, a match that could see Luis de la Fuente's side make an early statement.
Spain vs. Cape Verde
Time (ET): 12pm
Stadium: Atlanta Stadium
If Spain perform at the level that made them European champions two years ago in Germany, they will be extremely difficult to stop from lifting the World Cup for the second time. De la Fuente's side plays with exceptional cohesion, more like a club team than any other international outfit. Cape Verde will be the first to experience this.
Player to watch: Lamine Yamal, Spain – Fitness permitting, Yamal will be Spain's primary difference-maker in the final third. The teenager offers an all-round attacking threat on the right wing, compensating for the lack of a world-class centre forward.
Belgium vs. Egypt
Time (ET): 3pm
Stadium: Seattle Stadium
Belgium's golden generation is largely gone, but the Red Devils could be dark horses. Rudi Garcia's side qualified unbeaten and finished their preparation with a 5-0 win over Tunisia, highlighting their threat. Egypt, with Mohamed Salah eager to make an impact after leaving Liverpool, has never won a World Cup match.
Player to watch: Jeremy Doku, Belgium – The Manchester City winger is one of the most fearsome dribblers in world soccer and key to Belgium's hopes.
Saudi Arabia vs. Uruguay
Time (ET): 6pm
Stadium: Miami Stadium
At its best, 'Bielsa-ball' is exhilarating. Uruguay have the players for Marcelo Bielsa's high-energy, high-risk game, but his volatility makes them unpredictable. Saudi Arabia changed managers two months ago and struggled through qualifying.
Player to watch: Fede Valverde, Uruguay – One of the most effective midfield dynamos, Valverde will set the tone with his constant running and drive forward.
Iran vs. New Zealand
Time (ET): 9pm
Stadium: Los Angeles Stadium
Iran cruised through qualification, losing only once, and has been competitive at previous World Cups. New Zealand found qualifying easy but lack competition in the OFC. They will stay compact and play direct.
Player to watch: Chris Wood, New Zealand – The Nottingham Forest striker is their primary goal threat and focal point.
