The full lineup for the FIFA World Cup 2026 is now complete, with all 48 teams confirmed for the biggest tournament in football history.
DR Congo and Iraq secured the final spots, wrapping up a lengthy qualification process that began in September 2023 and involved teams from six confederations. The tournament will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
For the first time, the World Cup will feature 48 teams instead of 32, making it the largest edition ever. A total of 104 matches will be played over 39 days in 16 cities across the three host nations. The new format includes 12 groups of four teams.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stage, along with the eight best third-placed teams. This expanded structure introduces a round of 32 before progressing to the later knockout rounds. The opening match will see Mexico face South Africa at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
With matches spread across multiple time zones, kick-off times will vary significantly. Some games will take place late at night or early morning for European audiences, with 35 group-stage matches scheduled between midnight and 5:00 BST. However, the most common kick-off time will be 20:00 BST.
England will compete in Group L, facing Croatia, Ghana, and Panama. Scotland, placed in Group C, will play Haiti, Morocco, and Brazil during the group stage.
Spain enters the tournament as one of the favourites after a strong qualification campaign. England is also considered a top contender, boasting a talented squad and a perfect qualification record. France remains a strong challenger, while defending champions Argentina are expected to perform well again.
Despite mixed qualification results, Brazil’s history ensures it cannot be ruled out. With more teams, more matches, and a wider global reach, the 2026 tournament is set to redefine the World Cup experience. Fans worldwide now await the biggest football event ever staged.
