Historic Tournament Draw Sets Stage for 2026 World Cup

The group stage matchups for the 2026 FIFA World Cup were unveiled today, with England and Scotland learning their paths through the expanded 104-match tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico (June 11-July 19). This marks the first World Cup featuring 48 teams, with matches spread across 16 North American cities.

England's Challenging Group L Campaign

Gareth Southgate's England squad will face a rematch of their 2018 World Cup semi-final against Croatia on June 17, with Dallas or Toronto hosting the Group L opener. The Three Lions then meet Ghana on June 23 before concluding group play against Panama on June 27 - a repeat of their 6-1 victory from Russia 2018.

Manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged the difficulty of the draw: "Croatia and Ghana are World Cup regulars - proud, strong nations. Panama we'll need to study carefully. Our focus must be on winning the group."

Scotland's Nostalgic Return

Making their first World Cup appearance since 1998, Scotland will revisit past opponents Brazil and Morocco in Group C. Steve Clarke's team opens against Haiti on June 13 before facing 2022 semi-finalists Morocco (June 19) and five-time champions Brazil (June 24).

Potential Home Nations Additions

Wales or Northern Ireland could join through UEFA play-offs in March, entering Group B with Canada, Switzerland, and Qatar. The Republic of Ireland might land in Group A with hosts Mexico if they qualify.

Tournament Structure and Key Dates

  • Opening match: Mexico vs South Africa (June 11, Azteca Stadium)
  • Final: July 19 at MetLife Stadium (New York/New Jersey)
  • Full schedule with venues and kickoff times releases December 6 at 17:00 GMT

FIFA's new seeding system ensures England won't face top-ranked Spain or Argentina before the semi-finals, nor France before a potential final, provided all win their groups.

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#Football #FIFA World Cup #England National Team #Scotland National Team #Tournament Draw