The anticipation is building for soccer fans worldwide as the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches. If you’re wondering when the first World Cup game will be in 2026, mark your calendar for Thursday, June 11, 2026. This historic tournament will kick off at the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, making it a momentous occasion for football enthusiasts everywhere.
The opening match features Mexico versus South Africa at 1:00 PM CST (2:00 PM EST), recreating their memorable 2010 encounter. As the first-ever 48-team World Cup, this tournament schedule promises unprecedented excitement across three host nations: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Whether you’re planning to attend or watch from home, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the opening ceremony, match timings, and viewing options.
Opening Match Details: Mexico vs. South Africa
When is the first World Cup game 2026? Mexico will kick off the first-ever 48-team FIFA World Cup against South Africa at Mexico City Stadium on Thursday, June 11, at 1:00 PM local time (9:00 PM GMT/CET). This opening ceremony match brings special significance as it recreates the opening game from the 2010 FIFA World Cup, when these same two nations faced off.
Why the Estadio Azteca?
The Estadio Azteca holds legendary status in World Cup history. This iconic venue has hosted two previous World Cup finals (1970 and 1986) and will now have the honor of launching the most expansive World Cup tournament ever organized. The stadium’s rich heritage and passionate Mexican fanbase will create an electric atmosphere for the tournament’s inaugural match.
Complete Host Nation Opening Match Schedule
While Mexico plays the very first match, all three host countries have special opening day fixtures. For fans asking when is the first World Cup game 2026 for each host nation, here’s the complete schedule:
Mexico’s Opening Match
- Date: Thursday, June 11, 2026
- Time: 1:00 PM CST (2:00 PM EST / 7:00 PM GMT)
- Opponent: South Africa
- Venue: Mexico City Stadium (Estadio Azteca)
- Group: Group A
Canada’s Opening Match
- Date: Friday, June 12, 2026
- Time: 3:00 PM EST (12:00 PM PST / 8:00 PM GMT)
- Canada will host the winner of the European play-off in Toronto
- Venue: Toronto Stadium (BMO Field)
- Group: Group B
United States Opening Match
- Date: Friday, June 12, 2026
- Time: 6:00 PM PST (9:00 PM EST / 2:00 AM GMT+1)
- Opponent: Paraguay
- The U.S. Men’s National Team opening match takes place on June 12, 2026
- Venue: Los Angeles (SoFi Stadium)
- Group: Group C
What Makes the FIFA World Cup 2026 Historic?
The 2026 World Cup represents several groundbreaking firsts in tournament history. Understanding when is the first World Cup game 2026 is just the beginning of appreciating this historic event:
Expanded Format: 48 Teams
This edition sees the FIFA World Cup expanded to 48 teams, an increase of 16 teams compared with the previous seven tournaments. This expansion allows more nations to participate in the world’s most prestigious football tournament.
Tournament Structure
- 12 groups of 4 teams each
- Top 2 teams from each group advance automatically
- 8 best third-place teams also qualify
- New Round of 32 knockout stage
- 104 total matches (up from 64 in previous tournaments)
- 39-day tournament duration
Three Host Nations
For the first time, three countries will jointly host the World Cup: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The tournament features 16 world-class venues across North America.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Key Dates and Timeline
Understanding the complete World Cup schedule helps fans plan their viewing experience. If you’re wondering when is the first World Cup game 2026 and what follows, here’s the complete timeline:
Pre-Tournament Timeline
- March 26, 2026: UEFA Playoff semifinals
- March 31, 2026: UEFA Playoff finals and Inter-confederation playoffs
- May 24, 2026: Last club match day for World Cup players
- May 25-30, 2026: Player release period to national teams
Tournament Dates
- June 11, 2026: Opening match and ceremony
- June 11-27, 2026: Group stage matches
- June 28 – July 3, 2026: Round of 32
- July 4-8, 2026: Round of 16
- July 11-12, 2026: Quarterfinals
- July 15-16, 2026: Semifinals
- July 18, 2026: Third-place playoff
- July 19, 2026: World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium (New York/New Jersey)
All 16 FIFA World Cup 2026 Host Cities and Stadiums
The tournament will be played across 16 magnificent venues divided into three geographical regions:
Western Region
- Vancouver – BC Place
- Seattle – Lumen Field
- San Francisco Bay Area – Levi’s Stadium
- Los Angeles – SoFi Stadium
Central Region
- Guadalajara – Estadio Akron
- Mexico City – Estadio Azteca
- Monterrey – Estadio BBVA
- Houston – NRG Stadium
- Dallas – AT&T Stadium
- Kansas City – Arrowhead Stadium
Eastern Region
- Atlanta – Mercedes-Benz Stadium
- Miami – Hard Rock Stadium
- Toronto – BMO Field
- Boston – Gillette Stadium
- Philadelphia – Lincoln Financial Field
- New York/New Jersey – MetLife Stadium
How to Watch the First World Cup 2026 Game
Soccer fans searching for when is the first World Cup game 2026 also want to know how to watch it. Here are multiple viewing options for the opening match:
United States Broadcasting
- FOX Network: Primary broadcaster with 70 matches
- FS1: 34 matches
- Tubi: Free streaming in 4K for opening ceremonies and first two matches
- FOX Sports App: All 104 matches streaming live and on-demand
Global Coverage
FIFA’s official broadcasting partners will provide coverage worldwide, with specific broadcasters varying by country. Check your local FIFA broadcaster for regional coverage details.
Streaming Options
- FOX One streaming platform (4K available)
- Official FIFA streaming services
- Local broadcaster streaming apps
World Cup 2026 Qualified Teams and Groups
As of now, 42 teams have qualified for the tournament, with 6 spots remaining to be decided through playoff matches in March 2026.
Automatic Qualifiers Include:
- Host Nations: United States, Mexico, Canada
- Defending Champions: Argentina
- Debutant Nations: Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, Uzbekistan
- Top qualifiers from UEFA, CAF, CONMEBOL, AFC, and OFC
Group Stage Format
All qualified teams will be drawn into 12 groups (A through L) of 4 teams each. Each team plays three group stage matches, with the top performers advancing to the knockout rounds.
Ticket Information for World Cup 2026
Planning to attend matches in person? If you know when is the first World Cup game 2026, now’s the time to secure your tickets. Here’s what you need to know:
Current Ticket Sales
- Hospitality Packages: Available now through FIFA.com/hospitality
- Random Selection Draw: Opens December 11, 2025
- Travel Packages: Available through FIFA Partner Qatar Airways
- General Sales: Additional phases to be announced
Ticket Pricing
While FIFA has not released complete pricing, tickets typically range from affordable options for group stage matches to premium pricing for knockout rounds and the final.
Historical Significance of Mexico’s Opening Match
This won’t be the first time Mexico has hosted a World Cup opener. The nation has a proud World Cup hosting heritage:
- 1970 FIFA World Cup: First tournament in North America
- 1986 FIFA World Cup: Mexico stepped in as replacement host
- 2026 FIFA World Cup: First 48-team tournament opening
Mexico was placed in Group A and will play the opening match of the tournament at Estadio Azteca on June 11. The passionate Mexican supporters, combined with the venue’s storied history, ensures an unforgettable tournament launch.
What to Expect from the Opening Ceremony
While specific details remain under wraps, FIFA World Cup opening ceremonies traditionally feature:
- Cultural performances showcasing host nation heritage
- Musical performances by international artists
- Display of all participating nations’ flags
- Official tournament kickoff by FIFA officials
- Pre-match entertainment and festivities
The 2026 ceremony will uniquely celebrate all three host nations’ cultures, promising a spectacular show before the Mexico vs. South Africa match begins.
Preparing for the World Cup 2026 Experience
Whether you’re attending in person or watching from home, here’s how to prepare. Now that you know when is the first World Cup game 2026, make your plans:
For Stadium Attendees
- Book accommodations early in host cities
- Familiarize yourself with stadium locations and local transportation
- Apply for necessary visas if traveling internationally
- Purchase official merchandise and fan gear
- Join official FIFA fan festivals in host cities
For TV Viewers
- Set reminders for opening match kickoff times
- Plan viewing parties with fellow soccer enthusiasts
- Download official World Cup apps for schedules and updates
- Follow FIFA and tournament social media accounts
- Explore 4K streaming options for enhanced viewing
Impact on North American Soccer
The 2026 World Cup represents a watershed moment for soccer development in North America:
Growing Soccer Culture
- Increased youth participation and grassroots programs
- Major League Soccer expansion and investment
- Enhanced infrastructure and training facilities
- Greater international player recruitment to North American leagues
Economic Impact
- Billions in tourism revenue across 16 host cities
- Job creation in hospitality and event management
- Long-term benefits for local soccer programs
- Legacy infrastructure improvements
Legacy Programs
Los Angeles and other host cities have recognized Community Champions, nonprofit organizations harnessing soccer’s power to create meaningful change across their regions.
Notable Group Stage Fixtures Beyond Opening Day
While the opening match captures global attention, several other compelling fixtures are scheduled. Once you’ve marked when is the first World Cup game 2026, check out these exciting matchups:
Historic Matchups
- England vs. Croatia: Rematch of the dramatic 2018 semifinal (June 17, Dallas)
- Germany vs. Curaçao: First-ever meeting between these nations (June 14, Houston)
- 1,000th World Cup Match: Tunisia vs. Japan (June 20, Monterrey)
High-Profile Encounters
- France featuring Kylian Mbappé: Multiple primetime fixtures on FOX
- Argentina defending title: Group stage matches across various venues
- European powerhouses clash: Multiple UEFA team matchups throughout group play
Frequently Asked Questions About the First 2026 World Cup Game
What time does the first World Cup 2026 game start?
The opening match kicks off at 1:00 PM Mexico City time (2:00 PM EST, 7:00 PM GMT) on Thursday, June 11, 2026.
Where is the opening match being played?
The first game takes place at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, one of the most iconic football stadiums in the world.
Who plays in the first World Cup match 2026?
Mexico will face South Africa in the tournament’s opening match.
Can I buy tickets for the opening game?
Yes, tickets are available through FIFA’s official hospitality packages, with the Random Selection Draw opening December 11, 2025.
How many teams are in the World Cup 2026?
This is the first 48-team World Cup, expanded from the traditional 32-team format.
Will all three host nations play on opening day?
Mexico plays June 11, while Canada and the United States both have their opening matches on June 12, 2026.
What channel broadcasts the opening match?
In the United States, FOX Network and Tubi will broadcast the opening ceremony and match, with FOX providing extended pregame coverage.
Countdown to History: Why June 11, 2026 Matters
The first whistle on June 11, 2026, marks more than just another World Cup beginning. For everyone asking when is the first World Cup game 2026, the date represents:
- The largest World Cup ever organized with 48 participating nations
- The first tournament across three countries in World Cup history
- A new era for international football with expanded global participation
- North America’s soccer coming-of-age moment on the world stage
- 104 matches of world-class football over 39 unforgettable days
Final Thoughts: Mark Your Calendar
So, when is the first World Cup game 2026? The answer is crystal clear: Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 1:00 PM CST when Mexico kicks off against South Africa at the magnificent Estadio Azteca.
This historic tournament promises to deliver unprecedented excitement, featuring more teams, more matches, and more host cities than ever before. Whether you’re planning to attend in person or watch from home, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a celebration of the beautiful game like never before.
Start planning now—research ticket options, book your travel accommodations early if attending, and prepare your viewing schedule for 39 days of world-class soccer. The biggest World Cup in history is just around the corner, and it all begins with that first magical kick in Mexico City.
Stay updated: Follow FIFA’s official channels and your local broadcaster for the latest news, ticket releases, and match schedule updates as we count down to the greatest soccer spectacle on Earth.
Ready for more World Cup 2026 coverage? Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates on match schedules, team news, ticket information, and comprehensive tournament coverage.
