2026 World Cup Draw Sets Stage for North American Spectacle and Mega Matchups

The groups for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are now set. The draw ceremony took place in Washington D.C. on Friday. It revealed the path for the 48 teams competing across the United States, Canada, and Mexico next summer.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino hailed the event as “104 Super Bowls.” The expanded tournament promises a historic festival of football. According to reports from Reuters, the draw established intriguing early narratives and potential heavyweight clashes.

Host Nations Learn Their First-Round Fate

The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) will face Paraguay, Australia, and a UEFA playoff winner. Their group offers a strong chance to build momentum. Coach Mauricio Pochettino will aim to at least match the Round of 16 finish from 2022.

Mexico opens the entire tournament against South Africa on June 11. They also face South Korea and a European playoff side. Canada seeks its first-ever World Cup win against Qatar, Switzerland, and another playoff winner.

The draw also created a marquee striker showdown. France, featuring Kylian Mbappé, was paired with Erling Haaland’s Norway in Group I. That group also includes Senegal and a FIFA playoff winner.

Favorites Navigate Favorable Paths

Defending champion Argentina begins its title defense against Algeria, Austria, and debutant Jordan. It appears to be a manageable start for Lionel Messi and his teammates. Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, faces Colombia, Uzbekistan, and an inter-confederation playoff winner.

Five-time winner Brazil was drawn with 2022 semifinalist Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti. England, a favorite, must navigate a tricky Group L with Croatia, Ghana, and Panama. European champion Spain will meet Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay.

FIFA used seeding to separate the top four ranked nations. This means Spain, Argentina, France, and England cannot meet until the semifinals. The structure aims for competitive balance throughout the knockout stages.

The 2026 World Cup draw has laid the foundation for a truly continental celebration of football, setting the stage for unforgettable stories and defining battles next summer.

Info at your fingertips

When does the 2026 World Cup start?

The first match is on June 11, 2026, in Mexico City. The tournament final is scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

How many teams are in the 2026 World Cup?

It is the first 48-team World Cup. This is a significant expansion from the 32-team format used in previous tournaments.

Which group is the USA in?

The USMNT is in Group D. They will play Paraguay, Australia, and the winner of a UEFA playoff between Türkiye, Romania, Slovakia, and Kosovo.

What is the most exciting group from the draw?

Group I is a standout, pitting France’s Kylian Mbappé against Norway’s Erling Haaland. It also includes African powerhouse Senegal.

Are any teams still trying to qualify?

Yes. Six final spots remain. They will be decided through playoffs scheduled for March 2025, involving teams from Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania.

Where can I see the full group list?

The complete draw results have been published by major sports federations and global news agencies. All 12 groups are now confirmed.