The 2026 Men’s World Cup opened on THU 11 JUN 2026 with a 2-0 win for cohost Mexico over South Africa. The following day, Canada earned a 1-1 draw with Bosnia-Herzegovina, and the United States defeated Paraguay 4-1.

At the illustrious Estadio Azteca, el Tri earned a 2-0 win with goals from Julián QUIÑONES and Raúl JIMÉNEZ. The match came to a contentious end, with two South African players and one Mexican player sent off. Another Group A match was played that same day, as Korea Rep defeated Czechia 2-1.

On FRI 12 JUN 2026, Canada opened Group B with a 1-1 draw in Toronto, ON. Following a goal by Jovo LUKIĆ midway through the first half, Cyle LARIN drew Canada level in the second half to earn their first ever point at a Men’s World Cup, following six losses in their two previous appearances.

Later in the evening, the US cruised to a 4-1 win over Paraguay in Inglewood, CA. Folarin BALOGUN led the way with two goals in a dominant first half, giving the US the early lead in Group D.

The group phase continues until SAT 27 JUN 2026. At that point, the top two teams in each group, plus the best eight third placed teams, advance to the elimination phase, culminating with the final match in East Rutherford, NJ on SUN 19 JUL 2026.