Particle.news
Download on the App Store

World Cup 2026 Draw Finalized: Mexico to Open vs South Africa as Argentina Placed in Group J

FIFA set a 104-match schedule for the first 48‑team World Cup from June 11 to July 19, with venues, kickoff times plus playoff berths still to be confirmed.

Overview

  • At the Washington, D.C. draw, Mexico was assigned the tournament opener against South Africa at Estadio Azteca, with South Korea also in Group A and a UEFA playoff winner to be added.
  • Argentina, a seeded team, will play in Group J against Austria, Algeria and Jordan, with its group-stage debut set against Algeria.
  • The expanded format features 12 groups of four, advancing the top two in each group plus eight best third‑placed teams to a new round of 32, bringing finalists to a maximum of eight matches.
  • FIFA confirmed the tournament window of June 11–July 19, 2026, totaling 104 matches, and said detailed fixture assignments will follow after the draw.
  • The ceremony included the three host-nation leaders on stage, and FIFA presented its new Peace Prize to U.S. President Donald Trump during the event.