FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off today

The wait is finally over for football fans as the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on Friday, marking the beginning of the largest edition in the tournament's history.

For the first time, 48 teams will compete in the World Cup, expanding the field from 32 nations. Co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the tournament will feature a record 104 matches across 16 cities in North America.

The expanded format divides the 48 teams into 12 groups of four, with the top two teams from each group and the eight best third-placed sides advancing to the round of 32.

Defending champions Argentina headline a star-studded field that also includes Brazil, France, Spain, Germany, England, and Portugal. Uzbekistan and Jordan will make their World Cup debuts, while four-time champions Italy have failed to qualify for a third consecutive tournament.

The competition could mark the final World Cup appearances of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Croatia's Luka Modric, as a new generation led by Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, Lamine Yamal, Vinicius Junior, and Jamal Musiala looks set to take centre stage.

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With Argentina seeking to retain its crown and several traditional powerhouses among the favourites, the tournament promises weeks of drama, unforgettable moments, and the potential emergence of new football heroes.