The Start of the Biggest World Cup in History
On June 11, 2026, the football world holds its breath: the FIFA World Cup officially kicks off across the fields of the USA, Mexico, and Canada. For the first time in history, the tournament unites three host nations and 48 teams — instead of the usual 32. A record 104 matches will be played over 39 days, with the final taking place on July 19 at the stadium in New Jersey.
Opening Match: Mexico vs. South Africa at the Legendary Azteca
The first whistle will blow at 19:00 local time (01:00 Kyiv time on June 12) at the Mexico City Stadium — the legendary Estadio Azteca. Group A hosts Mexico take on South Africa in a match that is a rematch of the 2010 World Cup opener. Notably, this stadium will become the first in history to host matches at three separate World Cups — in 1970, 1986, and 2026.
The opening ceremony will begin 90 minutes before kickoff. Shakira and Burna Boy will perform the official tournament song "Dai Dai," joined by Alejandro Fernández, Belinda, J Balvin, Lila Downs, Los Ángeles Azules, Maná, and South African singer Tyla. Mexico City authorities declared June 11 an official public holiday in the city.
Three Opening Ceremonies — Three Host Countries
Unlike previous tournaments, the 2026 World Cup will feature three separate opening ceremonies — one in each host country. After Mexico City, Toronto (Canada) will take the baton on June 12 ahead of the Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina match, followed by Los Angeles (USA) before the USA vs. Paraguay game. FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated: "These ceremonies will unite music, culture, and football in a way that reflects both the individuality of each nation and the unity that defines this tournament."
First Match Day Schedule
- Group A: Mexico — South Africa, Estadio Azteca, Mexico City (22:00 Kyiv time)
- Group A: Republic of Korea — Czech Republic, Estadio Akron, Guadalajara (05:00 Kyiv time, June 12)
Tournament Format: New Group Stage Advancement Rules
The 48 teams are divided into 12 groups of four. The top two teams from each group advance to the Round of 32, along with the eight best third-placed teams. FIFA has also introduced a new playoff bracket system that prevents the two highest-ranked teams from meeting before the final: Spain and Argentina (the reigning champions) have been placed in opposite halves of the bracket, as have France and England.
Messi's Injury: Argentina Awaits Their Captain's Recovery
The biggest concern ahead of the tournament is the fitness of Lionel Messi. The 38-year-old Argentina captain suffered a left hamstring injury on May 25 during a match for Inter Miami and has been training on an individual program. Head coach Lionel Scaloni said: "Leo is feeling well. He trained partially with the group, which is important. He is on the mend." According to ESPN, Messi is expected to start Argentina's first match against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City. The Argentine Football Federation confirmed that several players, including Messi, "continue working with physiotherapists and are showing good progress."
In addition to Messi, defender Cristian Romero and striker Julián Álvarez have returned to full training, giving the coaching staff more options ahead of the group stage. Argentina will also face Austria and Jordan in Group J.
Ukraine's National Team Absent from the Tournament
For Ukrainian fans, this World Cup remains a tournament without their home team: Ukraine failed to clear the qualifying playoff hurdle, losing to Sweden 1–3. In Ukraine, all 104 matches will be broadcast by media service MEGOGO.
