2026 FIFA World Cup: Schedule, Kickoff Times and Viewing Guide

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be the biggest in history, featuring 48 teams, 104 matches, and an expanded 38-day format across 16 host cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico. From group-stage drama to the final showdown, here’s everything you need to know about the complete World Cup 2026 schedule, kickoff times and how to catch every game live.

How to Watch Every Match Live

All 104 matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be available to stream live on Fubo (try for free). In the United States, English-language coverage will air on Fox, while Spanish-language broadcasts will be carried by Telemundo. Whether you’re at home or on the go, make sure you’re signed up with a streaming package that includes both networks to experience every group-stage fixture and knockout showdown.

Complete Group Stage Schedule (All Times ET)

The tournament kicks off on Thursday, June 11, with hosts Mexico taking on South Africa. Below is the full group-stage fixture list, organized by date and kickoff time.

June 11–14 Highlights

• Thursday, June 11
  • Mexico vs. South Africa, 3 p.m.
  • South Korea vs. Czechia, 6 p.m.
• Friday, June 12
  • Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina, 3 p.m.
  • USA vs. Paraguay, 6 p.m.
• Saturday, June 13
  • Qatar vs. Switzerland, 12 p.m.
  • Brazil vs. Morocco, 3 p.m.
  • Scotland vs. Haiti, 6 p.m.
• Sunday, June 14
  • Australia vs. Türkiye, 12 p.m.
  • Germany vs. Curacao, 3 p.m.
  • Netherlands vs. Japan, 6 p.m.
  • Ivory Coast vs. Ecuador, 9 p.m.

June 15–20 Key Matchups

• Monday, June 15
  • Spain vs. Cabo Verde, 3 p.m.
  • Belgium vs. Egypt, 6 p.m.
  • Saudi Arabia vs. Uruguay, 9 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 16
  • France vs. Senegal, 3 p.m.
  • Argentina vs. Algeria, 6 p.m.
• Wednesday, June 17
  • England vs. Croatia, 6 p.m.
  • Colombia vs. Uzbekistan, 9 p.m.
• Saturday, June 20
  • Netherlands vs. Sweden, 3 p.m.
  • Germany vs. Ivory Coast, 6 p.m.
  • Ecuador vs. Curacao, 8 p.m.

Knockout Stage and Beyond

The Round of 32 begins Sunday, June 28, with back-to-back matches at 3 p.m. ET. From there, the competition intensifies through the Round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals and the final on Sunday, July 19 at 3 p.m. ET. Below is a simplified overview:

Round of 32 (June 28 – July 3)

• June 28: Runners-up A vs. Runners-up B, 3 p.m.
• June 29 – July 3: Multiple matchups daily at 1 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Round of 16 to Final

• Round of 16: July 4 – 7 (various times, 1 p.m. – 8 p.m.)
• Quarterfinals: July 9 – 11 (afternoon and evening slots)
• Semifinals: July 14 – 15, both at 3 p.m.
• Third-Place Match: July 18, 5 p.m.
• Final: July 19, 3 p.m.

Top Teams and Storylines to Watch

This tournament marks the so-called “last dance” for legends like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Argentina, the defending champions, will be eager to retain the trophy, while France aims to reclaim glory after their 2022 final loss. Spain, Brazil, Portugal and England also headline a star-studded field. On the co-host front, the USA, Mexico and Canada will aim to leverage home advantage and capture the imagination of fans across North America.

Tips for an Unforgettable World Cup Experience

• Plan ahead: Bookmark key matches and set reminders on your calendar in your local time zone.
• Explore multi-screen viewing options: Follow parallel games on multiple devices to catch late goals.
• Join watch parties: Share the atmosphere with fellow fans at local bars or online communities.
• Track your fantasy World Cup squads: Engage in punditry and friendly rivalries with friends.

With its expanded format, international fanfare and high-stakes drama, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises memories that will last a lifetime. Bookmark this schedule, secure your streaming access, and get ready for a truly global soccer spectacle.