Five 'Must-Watch' Matches at the 2026 World Cup Group Stage
Theo Al Jazeera
The 2026 World Cup group stage includes a record 72 matches. We highlight the five most anticipated games, from Brazil vs Morocco to Colombia vs Portugal.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off on June 11 with 72 group-stage matches held over more than two weeks, concluding on June 27. This edition will have the most group matches in tournament history.
Among them, five encounters stand out as must-see clashes.
Brazil vs Morocco
East Rutherford, New Jersey (USA) – June 13, 6:00 PM (22:00 GMT)
This Group C showdown promises to be a highlight of the opening weekend as five-time world champions Brazil face Morocco, the surprise package of the 2022 World Cup. Brazil boasts a wealth of experience under coach Carlo Ancelotti, spearheaded by Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior. Morocco arrives in North America as African champions, having been awarded the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations title amid controversy. Key players include Brahim Diaz and Achraf Hakimi.
Netherlands vs Japan
Dallas, Texas (USA) – June 14, 3:00 PM (20:00 GMT)
The opening match of Group F promises high drama as Ronald Koeman's Netherlands take on highly-rated Japan at the 94,000-seat Arlington stadium. The Dutch are chasing their first World Cup title, while Japan stunned Germany and Spain at Qatar 2022. Both teams aim to top Group F, where Sweden and Tunisia are seen as less daunting opponents.
France vs Senegal
East Rutherford, New Jersey (USA) – June 16, 3:00 PM (19:00 GMT)
The two sides have not met in over two decades. Their last encounter was the opening match of the 2002 World Cup, when Senegal made history with a 1-0 victory over defending champions France. This rematch in New Jersey promises no less excitement. Group I is considered a 'group of death' featuring Norway and Iraq, making this result critical for the top spot.
England vs Croatia
Dallas, Texas (USA) – June 17, 3:00 PM (20:00 GMT)
A replay of the 2018 World Cup semi-final, where Croatia came from behind to beat England and reach the final. Since then, the teams have met three times, with England winning twice and one scoreless draw. This match is a major test for coach Thomas Tuchel, leading the Three Lions in his first major tournament. Alongside Ghana and Panama in Group L, this result is likely to decide top spot.
Colombia vs Portugal
Miami, Florida (USA) – June 27, 7:30 PM (23:30 GMT)
The Miami stadium is expected to erupt for the final Group K match. Tickets have sold out, with resale prices ranging from $2,200 to $3,000, making it the most expensive group-stage ticket at the 2026 World Cup. Colombia enters the tournament in strong qualifying form, relying on Luis Diaz and James Rodriguez. In a group with Uzbekistan and DR Congo, this could be the decider for first place. Though Portugal is favored, the match promises surprises.
