Overview
- The tournament opened on Thursday with Mexico’s 2–0 win over South Africa at Estadio Azteca in a match that saw three red cards and has intensified scrutiny of refereeing decisions.
- The United States begins Group D on Friday night against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium with defender Chris Richards declared fit and Paraguay’s playmaker Julio Enciso doubtful after a warm‑up injury.
- Canada will play Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto in the first men’s World Cup match staged in Canada, and coach Jesse Marsch will be without Alphonso Davies for the opener because of a hamstring injury.
- U.S. broadcast plans are in place with Fox carrying English coverage, Telemundo Spanish coverage, and all U.S. matches available to stream free on Tubi, while other territories use different partners.
- Organizers face practical challenges from the longer, 48‑team schedule including long transfers, mandatory hydration breaks for heat, ticketing and visa problems, and heightened public attention on match operations.