Overview
- FIFA reopened ticket registration on December 11 for a random selection draw running through January 13, 2026, requiring a FIFA ID and a 3D Secure–enabled payment card, with the FIFA Marketplace paused until after December 15.
- Argentina will play Group J matches against Algeria on June 16 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, then Austria on June 22 and Jordan on June 27 at AT&T Stadium in the Dallas area.
- The 2026 World Cup calendar runs June 11 to July 19, with a 48‑team format that includes an added first knockout round and advancement for group winners, runners-up and select third‑place teams.
- Four nations have already clinched debut appearances: Uzbekistan, Jordan, Cape Verde and Curaçao, reflecting the broader opportunities created by the expanded field.
- With multiple group games in Texas, several teams are expected to base there—likely including Argentina and Japan in Dallas, and the Netherlands and Portugal splitting time between Dallas and Houston—while venues prepare with natural‑grass installations and Arrowhead readies one of the tournament’s largest and loudest stages.