World Cup 2026 Guide: Dates, Egypt’s Group, TV Channels
Everything Egyptian fans need for World Cup 2026: dates, host countries, Egypt’s group, qualified Arab nations, and where to watch (beIN Sports, TOD).
The 2026 World Cup is almost here — and for the first time it features Egypt, led by captain Mohamed Salah, alongside a record number of Arab nations. This guide answers every question Egyptian fans are searching: when it starts, where it’s held, Egypt’s group, the qualified Arab teams, and how to watch.
When does the 2026 World Cup start?
The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026 — kicking off in just days. Check the live match schedule for every fixture in your local time.
Where is the 2026 World Cup held?
For the first time it’s co-hosted by three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico, across 16 host cities. The final is on July 19, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey.
How many teams are in the 2026 World Cup?
A record 48 teams (up from 32), split into 12 groups of four, playing 104 matches in total. The top two from each group plus the eight best third-placed teams advance to the knockouts.
Which group is Egypt in?
Egypt is in Group G with Belgium, New Zealand, and Iran, captained by Mohamed Salah. Follow match predictions and free betting tips for Egypt’s games.
Which Arab nations qualified for the 2026 World Cup?
A record eight Arab nations qualified: Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iraq, and Jordan (Jordan’s first-ever World Cup) — the biggest Arab presence in the tournament’s history.
What TV channels show the 2026 World Cup?
beIN Sports holds exclusive rights to all 104 matches across the Middle East and North Africa:
- beIN Sports MAX — every match live in Ultra HD.
- TOD — beIN’s official streaming platform with World Cup packages.
- beIN CONNECT — app for TV subscribers to stream on mobile, desktop, and tablet.
Will Messi and Ronaldo play?
Both Argentina and Portugal are expected to feature, but whether Messi or Ronaldo personally play depends on final squad selection and fitness — not officially confirmed at the time of writing. Follow updates on the MasrOdds blog.
Where to watch and bet on Egypt’s matches
Track fixtures and results on the matches page, check betting odds and predictions, and if you want to bet on Egypt’s games you can play on Arba777 — EGP support and top odds for Egyptian players.
This content is for informational purposes only. Gambling can be addictive — play responsibly, 18+ only.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2026 World Cup start?
It runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Who is hosting the 2026 World Cup?
The United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Where is the 2026 World Cup final held?
At MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey on July 19, 2026.
How many teams are there?
48 teams in 12 groups, playing 104 matches in total.
Which group is Egypt in?
Group G with Belgium, New Zealand, and Iran.
What TV channels show it?
beIN Sports exclusively across the Middle East and North Africa, streaming via TOD and beIN CONNECT.
How many Arab nations qualified?
Eight: Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iraq, and Jordan.
