FIFA World Cup 2026 Kicks Off at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca

The FIFA World Cup 2026 has commenced at Mexico City's historic Estadio Azteca. Estadio Azteca, the largest stadium in Latin America, is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,200 meters (7,200 feet) above sea level.

In the opening match, hosts Mexico faced South Africa in Group A. Co-host Mexico made a winning start by defeating South Africa 2-0. Interestingly, this match evoked memories of the 2010 World Cup opener, which also featured a clash between these same two teams.

This edition of the World Cup will be the largest in history, with the number of participating teams increased from 32 to 48. A total of 104 matches will be played across the host nations—the USA, Canada, and Mexico—comprising 72 group-stage matches and 32 knockout-round matches.

The three host nations qualified automatically, while 45 other teams secured their spots through a challenging two-year qualification journey. The competition will feature 12 groups, each consisting of four teams.

The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, will advance to the 'Round of 32.' This marks the first time in the tournament's history that the knockout stage will feature 32 teams.

FIFA World Cup 2026: The Final Match

The showpiece match of this record-breaking World Cup will be played at the famous New York-New Jersey stadium on July 19, 2026. Over the past few decades, only eight nations have won the FIFA World Cup trophy: Brazil, Italy, Germany, Spain, Argentina, England, France, and the inaugural champion, Uruguay.

The Netherlands is considered one of the unluckiest teams in World Cup history; despite reaching the final three times and producing multiple generations of world-class talent, they have yet to win the title.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Teams making their debut

In total, four nations have qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the first time: Uzbekistan, Jordan, Cabo Verde, and Curaçao.

These nations represent three different football confederations, highlighting the sport's growing global reach.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Three opening ceremonies

Three opening ceremonies will take place in Mexico City, Toronto, and Los Angeles. Renowned ceremony producer Marco Balich is directing all three events. Artists such as Shakira, Katy Perry, Burna Boy, Michael Bublé, and Lisa performed at this major event.

The ceremony in Mexico featured traditional 'Papel Picado' art and cultural performances by indigenous communities.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Schedule for the three opening matches

Mexico City – June 11, 2026: Mexico vs. South Africa

Toronto – June 12, 2026: Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina

Los Angeles – June 12, 2026: USA vs. Paraguay

FIFA World Cup 2026: Mascot

Canada – Maple the Moose

Maple the Moose was born to travel; He traveled across all of Canada's provinces and territories, connecting with people and embracing the country's rich culture.

Mexico – Zayu the Jaguar

Hailing from the jungles of southern Mexico, Zayu the Jaguar embodies the country's rich heritage and vibrant spirit. Off the pitch, Zayu embraces Mexican culture through dance, food, and traditions, connecting with people with passion and pride.

USA – Clutch the Bald Eagle

Clutch the Bald Eagle possesses an insatiable thirst for adventure; he soars across the USA, embracing every culture, sport, and moment with boundless curiosity and positivity.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Theme Song

Global icons Shakira and Nora Fatehi discussed their collaboration with FIFA and its significance for them and the beautiful game. Shakira's "Dai Dai" is the official anthem of the FIFA World Cup 2026, while Nora Fatehi features in FIFA's latest release, "Sirr Sirr."

Prior to "Dai Dai," the Colombian superstar wrote and performed "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)." Featuring Freshlyground, it was the official anthem of the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa.

 

List of countries with the most FIFA World Cup trophies:

1st: Brazil – 5 titles

2nd: Germany – 4 titles

2nd: Italy – 4 titles

4th: Argentina – 3 titles

5th: France – 2 titles

5th: Uruguay – 2 titles

7th: England – 1 title

7th: Spain – 1 title

Brazil

22 times participated, 8 semi-finals, 6 finals

5 titles (1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, and 2002)