World Cup 2026 Opening Date & Opening Match (Mexico vs South Africa)

The biggest World Cup in history is almost here. Here's the opening date, the opening match and who plays it, the host countries, and everything Arab fans are searching for.

When does the World Cup 2026 open?

The opening ceremony and match take place on June 11, 2026, and the tournament runs until July 19, 2026, just days away.

Who plays the World Cup 2026 opening match?

The opening match is Mexico vs South Africa at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, as hosts Mexico open the tournament on home soil in Group A. Estadio Azteca makes history as the first stadium ever to host three World Cup opening matches (1970, 1986, and 2026).

Where is the World Cup 2026 held?

For the first time it's co-hosted by three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico, across 16 host cities (11 in the US, 3 in Mexico, 2 in Canada). The final is on July 19, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey.

How many teams and matches?

A record 48 teams (up from 32) in 12 groups, playing 104 matches. The top two from each group plus the eight best third-placed teams reach the knockouts.

How long until the World Cup 2026?

With kickoff on June 11, 2026, only days remain until the opening ceremony and first match. Follow the countdown and schedule live.

Where to watch the opening

The opening and all matches air exclusively on beIN Sports in MENA (beIN Sports MAX in Ultra HD), with streaming via TOD and beIN CONNECT.

And where does Egypt play?

Egypt is in Group G with Belgium, New Zealand, and Iran, led by Mohamed Salah. Follow fixtures on the matches page and predictions. To bet on the tournament, play on Arba777.

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