Topic
244 articles
The 2026 World Cup kicks off on June 11 in Mexico with the opening ceremony and two Group A matches. Beyond the action, controversies over dynamic ticket pricing, upgraded technology, player injuries, and political protests shape the narrative.
South Korea, Asia's most successful World Cup team, faces two-time runners-up Czech Republic in the opening match of Group A at the 2026 World Cup. The game kicks off at 2:00 a.m. Friday (Vietnam time) at Estadio Guadalajara in Mexico. With stars like Son Heung-min, South Korea are favorites, but the Czechs, returning after 20 years, boast dangerous attackers like Patrik Schick.
FIFA has ordered Haiti to redesign its World Cup 2026 shirt just days before their opening match, citing regulations against political messaging after the kit featured an illustration of the 1803 Battle of Vertieres, the country's independence battle. The manufacturer Saeta confirmed the design was modified to comply with FIFA's rules, noting that the original intent was to honour Haitians, not to make a political statement.
Al Jazeera compiles the list of teams, groups, key dates and opening time for the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States. The tournament features 48 teams, 104 matches, and defending champions Argentina.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino defends the US as a World Cup host amid a visa controversy, stating FIFA cannot override US government decisions. The remarks follow the denial of entry to a Somali referee with a valid visa.
Somali referee Omar Artan is the latest individual denied US entry despite a valid visa, sparking criticism of US immigration policies as the 2026 World Cup begins. Iran's team faced visa delays, while Iraqi striker Aymen Hussein was detained at Chicago airport. Fans from Morocco and Scotland also reported visa rejections.
The 2026 World Cup opening in Mexico is overshadowed by teacher union protests blocking central squares and lingering security concerns after February violence. President Sheinbaum pledges safety, with over 100,000 troops and police deployed across three host cities. Families of the missing call for focus on humanitarian crises rather than city beautification.
Portugal beat Nigeria 2-1 in a World Cup 2026 warm-up friendly, but Cristiano Ronaldo failed to convert clear chances. Ronaldo was substituted in the 65th minute, while substitute Francisco Conceicao scored the winner.
The 2026 World Cup kicks off with a Group A rematch between co-host Mexico and South Africa at the Estadio Azteca. The two teams previously met in the 2010 tournament opener, drawing 1-1. Mexico are favourites, but South Africa hope to repeat their upset from 16 years ago.
