Overview
- Mexico opens the tournament on June 11 at Estadio Azteca against South Africa, then faces South Korea in Guadalajara and a European play‑off winner to close Group A.
- Spain vs. Uruguay is set for Guadalajara, a marquee group game that drew complaints from Spanish fans over the kickoff time and from Mexican fans who view the local slate as low profile.
- FIFA confirmed key regulations for 2026, including 26‑player rosters, mandatory heat‑related hydration breaks, and head‑to‑head as the primary group tiebreaker.
- Despite recent visa and diplomatic frictions, Iran and Haiti are scheduled to play their group matches in U.S. stadiums, with Iran debuting June 15 in Los Angeles and Haiti facing Scotland June 13 in Boston.
- Mexico’s camp began planning around altitude and logistics, media reported a February friendly with Iceland that remains unconfirmed, and Opta’s model currently lists Spain as the title favorite at 17%.