The countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway, and the tournament’s expanded 48-team format has already delivered major talking points. The latest World Cup draw confirmed that England will launch their campaign against Croatia, while Scotland return to the global stage for the first time in 28 years with a challenging group featuring Brazil.
The 2026 edition, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, will take place from 11 June to 19 July, marking the biggest World Cup in history with 104 matches across 16 host cities.
England Draw Croatia, Ghana and Panama in Group L
Thomas Tuchel’s England squad will open Group L on 17 June, with their first match set for either Dallas or Toronto. Croatia, a team England knows well from recent tournaments, will provide a tough test to begin their journey.
After the opening fixture, England will meet Ghana on 23 June in either Toronto or Boston, before concluding the group stage against Panama on 27 June in Philadelphia or New York.
England received one of the special top seedings due to their place inside FIFA’s top four ranked nations—alongside Spain, Argentina, and France. This ensures the Three Lions cannot meet another top-four side until at least the semi-finals, provided they top their group.
Tuchel acknowledged the challenge ahead, noting that both Croatia and Ghana have long histories of competing strongly at World Cups. He also emphasized that Panama, despite being less familiar, cannot be underestimated.
Scotland Face Haiti, Morocco and Five-Time Champions Brazil
Scotland’s long-awaited return to men’s World Cup football begins on 13 June against Haiti in Boston or New York. Their second match comes against Morocco on 19 June, with their blockbuster meeting against Brazil scheduled for 24 June in Atlanta or Miami.
Head coach Steve Clarke described the draw as “fantastic,” especially as Scotland avoided European opponents. With one team each from North America, Africa, and South America in Group C, Scotland are set for a diverse and high-profile group-stage campaign.
Facing Brazil echoes memories of the 1998 World Cup, the last time Scotland qualified, where Brazil and Morocco were also group opponents.
Wales, Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland Paths Still Open
The draw also outlined potential pathways for the remaining British and Irish sides undergoing qualification playoffs:
- Wales or Northern Ireland could join Canada, Qatar and Switzerland in Group B, depending on the outcome of their UEFA playoff bracket.
- The Republic of Ireland could find themselves in a group featuring Mexico, South Africa and South Korea if they secure qualification.
UEFA playoff paths and FIFA intercontinental playoff routes were confirmed, with several nations—such as Italy, Poland, Sweden, and DR Congo—still vying for their positions in the final tournament lineup.
Tournament Hosts and Opening Match Confirmed
Hosts Mexico, Canada, and the United States were guaranteed group placements ensuring all their group-stage matches take place in their home nations. The opening match of the tournament will see Mexico play South Africa at the historic Estadio Azteca, signaling the beginning of the largest World Cup ever staged.
What the 2026 World Cup Format Looks Like
The 2026 World Cup introduces:
- 12 groups of four teams
- Top two teams from each group qualify
- Eight best third-place teams also advance
- Total of 104 matches, the most in World Cup history
This structure increases the number of knockout-round fixtures, adding greater unpredictability and more opportunities for emerging football nations.
Reactions From England and Scotland Camps
Tuchel’s England Outlook
Tuchel praised his squad’s perfect qualifying campaign—eight wins, zero goals conceded—but stressed that group-stage football always demands respect.
He highlighted Croatia’s consistency on the world stage, Ghana’s rich talent and unpredictability, and Panama’s motivation as underdogs seeking an upset.
Clarke’s Scotland Confidence
Scotland manager Steve Clarke expressed excitement at competing against elite opponents, especially Brazil. Clarke said the team hopes to “bring a little bit of magic” as they aim to reach the knockout stage for the first time.
Star-Studded Draw Ceremony and FIFA Peace Prize
The draw event in Washington DC featured global celebrities and sporting icons. Presenters included Kevin Hart, Heidi Klum, and Danny Ramirez, with performances from renowned artists such as Andrea Bocelli, Robbie Williams, Lauryn Hill, and Nicole Scherzinger.
A notable moment saw US President Donald Trump receive the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize for efforts toward “peace and unity.” FIFA president Gianni Infantino compared the upcoming tournament to “104 Super Bowls in one month” for American fans.
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