2026 World Cup: Groups, News and Tournament Format

The 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be a historic event, not only due to its expanded format but also because of the surprises and comebacks that will mark this edition. Below, we break down the configuration of some confirmed groups, as well as the most relevant data to date.

Confirmed Groups

The preliminary groups have been drawn, setting the stage for exciting matchups.

Group F features the Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia, promising intense competition.

In Group G, Belgium, Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand will compete, seeking a place in the next phase.

Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay make up Group H, where experience will meet the ambition of emerging national teams.

France, Senegal, Iraq, and Norway will compete in Group I, a quartet with the potential to create great moments.

Group J brings together Argentina, Algeria, Austria, and Jordan, with the Albiceleste leading a group of contenders.

Portugal, Democratic Republic of Congo, Uzbekistan, and Colombia are in Group K, highlighting the return of important national teams.

Finally, Group L includes England, Croatia, Ghana, and Panama, a diverse group with contrasting playing styles.

News and Highlights

This edition of the World Cup is full of stories.

Italy, the four-time world champion, unfortunately remains out for the third consecutive time, after their absences in Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022. Shocking news for Azzurra fans.

Bolivia, despite their efforts, failed to qualify, postponing their dream of returning to a World Cup after 32 years since USA 1994. Their loss to Iraq was a hard blow for the Andean team.

Among the historic debutants, Curaçao, Jordan, Cape Verde, and Uzbekistan will make their first appearance in football's biggest event, marking a milestone for their respective nations.

Numerous national teams are making significant returns: the Democratic Republic of Congo returns after 52 years, Turkey after 24 years, the Czech Republic after 20 years, Iraq after 40 years, and Bosnia after a 12-year absence. These comebacks promise to inject an extra dose of excitement into the tournament.

2026 Tournament Format

The 2026 World Cup introduces an innovative format that promises more matches and greater excitement.

The tournament will feature 12 groups, each consisting of 4 teams.

The top two teams from each group will qualify for the next round, along with the eight best third-place teams, forming a total of 32 teams in the knockout phase.

The grand final is scheduled for July 19.

The opening match will take place on June 11 at Mexico's iconic Estadio Azteca, where the home team will face South Africa, kicking off this monumental football celebration.

Stay up-to-date with all the information and analysis at NexScore. Explore our statistics and predictions for every match.

At NexScore, we promote responsible gaming. Bet smartly and enjoy the sport consciously.