World Cup 2026 fixtures revealed: England face Croatia in opener
World Cup 2026 fixtures revealed: England face Croatia in opener
Fixtures, kick-off times, and venues for the expanded 48-team World Cup are confirmed across Mexico, Canada, and the US, with England drawn to meet Croatia in the opener.
The world now has a clearer picture of the expanded World Cup schedule, with 48 teams set to battle it out across Mexico, Canada, and the United States. The full fixtures, including kick-off times and venue details, have been released, laying out a summer tournament that promises travel, travel, and more football across North America. Fans can start planning trips and viewing windows as the calendar fills with headline matchups and marquee stadiums across three host nations.
England’s campaign is highlighted by a favorable start, with the Three Lions drawn to face Croatia in their opening game on June 17. The kickoff times have been set to give domestic and international fans a clear window to watch, with venues spread across the North American map to maximize exposure and attendance. The early rounds will test England’s depth and stamina as they navigate the 48-team format.
Scotland’s path features a tougher assignment, with a group that will pit them against Brazil, adding a high-profile clash to the early rounds. Ghana is also among the teams drawing attention in the draw, signaling a challenging group phase for several European nations alongside regional rivals. The overall schedule aims to balance geographic spread with competitive balance, creating a tournament that keeps fans glued from kickoff to the final whistle.
With venues confirmed across three nations, supporters will be able to follow a steady stream of matches throughout the summer. The expanded format and North American staging are expected to draw huge crowds, create buoyant atmosphere in venues, and deliver a robust global showcase for the sport.
