The opening round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises excitement, surprises, and crucial early points as all 48 teams begin their journey toward the knockout rounds. With the new tournament format, every match matters, and even a single point could be decisive in the race for qualification. Matchday 1 often features cautious approaches from favorites, while underdogs look to make an immediate statement. The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the group stage taking place from June 11 to June 27.
June 11 (Thursday)
Mexico vs South Africa → 1
Home advantage and stronger squad quality should help Mexico start with a win.
Korea Republic vs Czechia → X
Balanced matchup. Both teams may prioritize avoiding defeat in their opener.
June 12 (Friday)
Canada vs Bosnia and Herzegovina → 1
Canada’s home support and attacking pace could prove decisive.
USA vs Paraguay → 1
The Americans look stronger overall and should take control of the game.
June 13 (Saturday)
Haiti vs Scotland → 2
Scotland have greater tournament experience and more depth.
Australia vs Türkiye → 2
Türkiye possess more quality in midfield and attack.
Brazil vs Morocco → 1
Morocco are dangerous, but Brazil remain favorites thanks to superior individual talent.
Qatar vs Switzerland → 2
Switzerland are more organized and consistent over 90 minutes.
June 14 (Sunday)
Côte d’Ivoire vs Ecuador → X
A very even contest between two physical and competitive sides.
Germany vs Curaçao → 1
One of the biggest quality gaps of the opening round.
Netherlands vs Japan → 1
Japan can compete, but the Dutch have greater squad depth.
Sweden vs Tunisia → 1
Sweden’s defensive discipline could make the difference.
June 15 (Monday)
Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay → 2
Uruguay’s experience and intensity should be enough.
Spain vs Cape Verde → 1
Spain are expected to dominate possession and create plenty of chances.
Iran vs New Zealand → 1
Iran look stronger and more experienced at this level.
Belgium vs Egypt → 1
Belgium’s attacking talent gives them the edge.
June 16 (Tuesday)
France vs Senegal → 1
A difficult test, but France have more quality across the pitch.
Iraq vs Norway → 2
Norway’s attacking firepower should be decisive.
Argentina vs Algeria → 1
Argentina remain among the strongest contenders in the tournament.
Austria vs Jordan → 1
Austria are the more complete and balanced side.
June 17 (Wednesday)
Ghana vs Panama → 1
Ghana possess more pace and individual quality.
England vs Croatia → 1
England have the stronger squad, although Croatia are always dangerous on the big stage.
Portugal vs DR Congo → 1
Portugal should control the game through possession and creativity.
Uzbekistan vs Colombia → 2
Colombia’s experience and technical quality make them favorites.
