FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule, Fixtures, Dates, Venues & Nigeria Time (WAT)

FIFA World Cup 2026 schedule showing all fixtures, match dates, venues, host cities and knockout stage matches in USA, Canada and Mexico.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule : The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be the biggest football tournament ever staged, bringing together 48 national teams and 104 matches across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Football fans in Nigeria can follow every FIFA World Cup 2026 fixture, kickoff time, venue and tournament update right here on LiveMatch10.

This complete FIFA World Cup 2026 schedule page includes group stage fixtures, knockout matches, host cities, stadium information and match times displayed for football fans following the tournament from Nigeria. Whether you support Argentina, Brazil, England, France, Germany or one of the qualified African nations, this page provides everything you need to stay updated throughout the competition.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Tournament Overview

InformationDetails
TournamentFIFA World Cup 2026
Teams48
Matches104
Host CountriesUSA, Canada & Mexico
Opening Match11 June 2026
Final Match19 July 2026
Tournament FormatGroup Stage + Knockout Stage
CoverageNigeria Time (WAT)

Why FIFA World Cup 2026 Is Historic

FIFA World Cup 2026 marks the first edition of the tournament featuring 48 teams. The expanded format creates more opportunities for nations from Africa, Asia, North America, South America and Europe to compete on football’s biggest stage.

The tournament will be played across world-class stadiums in three host nations and will feature a new knockout format beginning with a Round of 32. Fans can expect more matches, more goals, more drama and six weeks of world-class football action.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule & Group Stage Fixtures

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule group stage consists of 72 matches across 12 groups. Every team will play three matches as they compete for qualification to the knockout stage.


Group A Schedule

Teams

  • Mexico

  • South Africa

  • South Korea

  • Czechia

DateMatchVenue
11 June 2026Mexico vs South AfricaEstadio Azteca
11 June 2026South Korea vs CzechiaEstadio Akron
18 June 2026Czechia vs South AfricaMercedes-Benz Stadium
18 June 2026Mexico vs South KoreaEstadio Akron
24 June 2026Czechia vs MexicoEstadio Azteca
24 June 2026South Africa vs South KoreaEstadio BBVA

Group A Preview

Group A features tournament hosts Mexico alongside South Africa, South Korea and Czechia. Mexico will look to capitalize on home advantage, while South Korea and Czechia bring significant international experience. South Africa aims to make a strong impression and challenge for a place in the knockout rounds.


Group B Schedule

Teams

  • Canada

  • Bosnia and Herzegovina

  • Qatar

  • Switzerland

DateMatchVenue
12 June 2026Canada vs Bosnia and HerzegovinaBMO Field
13 June 2026Qatar vs SwitzerlandLevi’s Stadium
18 June 2026Switzerland vs Bosnia and HerzegovinaSoFi Stadium
18 June 2026Canada vs QatarBC Place
24 June 2026Switzerland vs CanadaBC Place
24 June 2026Bosnia and Herzegovina vs QatarLumen Field

Group B Preview

Canada enters the tournament as one of the host nations and will hope to take advantage of familiar conditions. Switzerland’s consistency in major tournaments makes them a dangerous opponent, while Qatar and Bosnia and Herzegovina will look to upset expectations and secure qualification.


Group C Schedule

Teams

  • Brazil

  • Haiti

  • Morocco

  • Scotland

DateMatch
13 June 2026Brazil vs Morocco
13 June 2026Haiti vs Scotland
19 June 2026Brazil vs Haiti
19 June 2026Scotland vs Morocco
24 June 2026Scotland vs Brazil
24 June 2026Morocco vs Haiti

Group C Preview

Group C is expected to be one of the most competitive groups in the tournament. Brazil enters as one of the favourites to win FIFA World Cup 2026, while Morocco continues to build on its recent international success. Scotland and Haiti will aim to challenge for qualification and create surprises.


Group D Schedule

Teams

  • USA

  • Australia

  • Paraguay

  • Türkiye

DateMatch
12 June 2026USA vs Paraguay
13 June 2026Australia vs Türkiye
19 June 2026Türkiye vs Paraguay
19 June 2026USA vs Australia
25 June 2026Türkiye vs USA
25 June 2026Paraguay vs Australia

Group D Preview

The United States will enjoy strong home support throughout the tournament and enters Group D as a favourite to progress. Australia, Paraguay and Türkiye all possess quality squads capable of competing for qualification, making this one of the most unpredictable groups.


Group E Schedule

Teams

  • Germany

  • Ivory Coast

  • Ecuador

  • Curaçao

DateMatch
14 June 2026Ivory Coast vs Ecuador
14 June 2026Germany vs Curaçao
20 June 2026Germany vs Ivory Coast
20 June 2026Ecuador vs Curaçao
25 June 2026Curaçao vs Ivory Coast
25 June 2026Ecuador vs Germany

Group E Preview

Germany arrives with one of the richest histories in FIFA World Cup competition and is expected to challenge for the title. Ivory Coast represents a strong African challenge, while Ecuador and Curaçao will be determined to compete for a place in the knockout stage.


Group F Schedule

Teams

  • Netherlands

  • Japan

  • Sweden

  • Tunisia

DateMatch
14 June 2026Netherlands vs Japan
14 June 2026Sweden vs Tunisia
20 June 2026Netherlands vs Sweden
20 June 2026Tunisia vs Japan
25 June 2026Japan vs Sweden
25 June 2026Tunisia vs Netherlands

Group F Preview

The Netherlands enters the tournament with high expectations and a talented squad capable of making a deep run. Japan continues to impress on the international stage, while Sweden and Tunisia bring experience and determination. Every match in Group F could have a significant impact on qualification.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule & Fixtures for Nigeria Fans

LiveMatch10 provides FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule, fixtures, standings and results in a format designed specifically for Nigerian football fans. Throughout the tournament, this page will be updated with match information, results, standings and knockout stage updates.

Fans can also explore team guides, group standings, match predictions, top scorers and FIFA World Cup betting analysis throughout the competition.

FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage draw showing all 12 groups, participating teams, and tournament trophy

Group G Schedule

Teams

  • Belgium

  • Egypt

  • Iran

  • New Zealand

DateMatchVenue
15 June 2026Iran vs New ZealandSoFi Stadium
15 June 2026Belgium vs EgyptLumen Field
21 June 2026Belgium vs IranSoFi Stadium
21 June 2026New Zealand vs EgyptBC Place
26 June 2026Egypt vs IranLumen Field
26 June 2026New Zealand vs BelgiumBC Place

Group G Preview

Belgium enters Group G with a talented squad and hopes of making another deep World Cup run. Egypt will look to challenge for qualification, while Iran and New Zealand aim to surprise stronger opponents and reach the knockout stage.


Group H Schedule

Teams

  • Spain

  • Saudi Arabia

  • Uruguay

  • Cape Verde

DateMatchVenue
15 June 2026Saudi Arabia vs UruguayHard Rock Stadium
15 June 2026Spain vs Cape VerdeMercedes-Benz Stadium
21 June 2026Uruguay vs Cape VerdeHard Rock Stadium
21 June 2026Spain vs Saudi ArabiaMercedes-Benz Stadium
26 June 2026Cape Verde vs Saudi ArabiaNRG Stadium
26 June 2026Uruguay vs SpainEstadio Akron

Group H Preview

Spain and Uruguay are expected to battle for the top position in Group H. However, Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde have shown they can compete with strong opponents and could become dark horses in the group.


Group I Schedule

Teams

  • France

  • Senegal

  • Iraq

  • Norway

DateMatchVenue
16 June 2026France vs SenegalMetLife Stadium
16 June 2026Iraq vs NorwayGillette Stadium
22 June 2026Norway vs SenegalMetLife Stadium
22 June 2026France vs IraqLincoln Financial Field
26 June 2026Norway vs FranceGillette Stadium
26 June 2026Senegal vs IraqBMO Field

Group I Preview

France enters FIFA World Cup 2026 among the leading title contenders. Senegal represents one of Africa’s strongest teams and could challenge for first place, while Norway and Iraq hope to secure valuable points and progress.


Group J Schedule

Teams

  • Argentina

  • Algeria

  • Austria

  • Jordan

DateMatchVenue
16 June 2026Argentina vs AlgeriaArrowhead Stadium
16 June 2026Austria vs JordanLevi’s Stadium
22 June 2026Argentina vs AustriaAT&T Stadium
22 June 2026Jordan vs AlgeriaLevi’s Stadium
27 June 2026Algeria vs AustriaArrowhead Stadium
27 June 2026Jordan vs ArgentinaAT&T Stadium

Group J Preview

Defending champions Argentina headline Group J and will be favourites to advance. Algeria, Austria and Jordan will all believe they have a realistic chance of qualifying for the Round of 32.


Group K Schedule

Teams

  • Portugal

  • Colombia

  • Congo DR

  • Uzbekistan

DateMatchVenue
17 June 2026Portugal vs Congo DRNRG Stadium
17 June 2026Uzbekistan vs ColombiaEstadio Azteca
23 June 2026Portugal vs UzbekistanNRG Stadium
23 June 2026Colombia vs Congo DREstadio Akron
27 June 2026Colombia vs PortugalHard Rock Stadium
27 June 2026Congo DR vs UzbekistanMercedes-Benz Stadium

Group K Preview

Portugal and Colombia are expected to lead the race for qualification, but Congo DR and Uzbekistan have the potential to produce surprises. Every point will matter in this highly competitive group.


Group L Schedule

Teams

  • England

  • Croatia

  • Ghana

  • Panama

DateMatchVenue
17 June 2026Ghana vs PanamaBMO Field
17 June 2026England vs CroatiaAT&T Stadium
23 June 2026England vs GhanaGillette Stadium
23 June 2026Panama vs CroatiaBMO Field
27 June 2026Panama vs EnglandMetLife Stadium
27 June 2026Croatia vs GhanaLincoln Financial Field

Group L Preview

England enters the tournament with one of the strongest squads in world football. Croatia’s tournament experience could prove crucial, while Ghana and Panama will fight for every opportunity to reach the knockout rounds.


FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule for Knockout Stage

The FIFA World Cup 2026 introduces a new knockout format featuring a Round of 32. The top teams from the group stage will battle for a place in the final and the chance to become world champions.

Round of 32 Fixtures

MatchDateFixture
Match 7328 June 2026Group A Runner-Up vs Group B Runner-Up
Match 7429 June 2026Group E Winner vs Best Third-Placed Team
Match 7529 June 2026Group F Winner vs Group C Runner-Up
Match 7629 June 2026Group C Winner vs Group F Runner-Up
Match 7730 June 2026Group I Winner vs Best Third-Placed Team
Match 7830 June 2026Group E Runner-Up vs Group I Runner-Up
Match 7930 June 2026Group A Winner vs Best Third-Placed Team
Match 801 July 2026Group L Winner vs Best Third-Placed Team
Match 811 July 2026Group D Winner vs Best Third-Placed Team
Match 821 July 2026Group G Winner vs Best Third-Placed Team
Match 832 July 2026Group K Runner-Up vs Group L Runner-Up
Match 842 July 2026Group H Winner vs Group J Runner-Up
Match 852 July 2026Group B Winner vs Best Third-Placed Team
Match 863 July 2026Group J Winner vs Group H Runner-Up
Match 873 July 2026Group K Winner vs Best Third-Placed Team
Match 883 July 2026Group D Runner-Up vs Group G Runner-Up

Knockout Stage Analysis

The expanded tournament format means more nations will have the opportunity to qualify for the knockout stage. Third-placed teams can also advance, creating additional drama throughout the group phase.


Round of 16 Schedule

MatchDate
Match 894 July 2026
Match 904 July 2026
Match 915 July 2026
Match 925 July 2026
Match 936 July 2026
Match 946 July 2026
Match 957 July 2026
Match 967 July 2026

Road to the Quarter-Finals

The Round of 16 will feature the strongest teams remaining in the competition. Every match becomes a winner-takes-all contest where a single moment can determine who continues their World Cup journey.


Quarter-Finals Schedule

MatchDateVenue
Match 979 July 2026Gillette Stadium
Match 9810 July 2026SoFi Stadium
Match 9911 July 2026Hard Rock Stadium
Match 10011 July 2026Arrowhead Stadium

Quarter-Final Preview

Historically, the quarter-finals produce some of the most memorable FIFA World Cup matches. Fans can expect elite football, tactical battles and championship contenders fighting for a place in the semi-finals.


Semi-Finals Schedule

MatchDateVenue
Match 10114 July 2026AT&T Stadium
Match 10215 July 2026Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Semi-Final Preview

The final four teams will battle for a place in football’s biggest match. Every semi-final has the potential to create unforgettable moments and national heroes.


FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule Third Place Match

DateVenue
18 July 2026Hard Rock Stadium, Miami

The third-place playoff offers one final opportunity for teams to finish the tournament on a high note and secure a podium finish.


FIFA World Cup 2026 Final

DateVenue
19 July 2026MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey

FIFA World Cup Final Preview

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Final will be the most watched football match in the world. The two remaining nations will compete for football’s ultimate prize and the chance to lift the FIFA World Cup Trophy.

The final at MetLife Stadium is expected to attract millions of viewers worldwide, including football fans across Nigeria following every moment of the tournament.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Knockout Stage Guide for Nigeria Fans

For Nigerian football supporters, the knockout rounds represent the most exciting stage of the tournament. Every match becomes a direct elimination contest, creating intense drama and unforgettable football moments.

LiveMatch10 will provide complete coverage of the Round of 32, Round of 16, Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals, Third Place Match and FIFA World Cup 2026 Final, including fixtures, results, standings, predictions, top scorers and match analysis.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Host Cities

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be hosted across three countries — the United States, Canada and Mexico. A total of 16 host cities will welcome millions of football fans during the tournament.

United States Host Cities

  • New York / New Jersey

  • Los Angeles

  • Dallas

  • Houston

  • Atlanta

  • Miami

  • Seattle

  • Boston

  • Philadelphia

  • Kansas City

  • San Francisco Bay Area

Canada Host Cities

  • Toronto

  • Vancouver

Mexico Host Cities

  • Mexico City

  • Guadalajara

  • Monterrey

FIFA World Cup 2026 Host Cities Overview

The tournament will span North America and feature some of the world’s most modern football stadiums. Fans can expect packed stadiums, incredible atmospheres and world-class football throughout the competition.


FIFA World Cup 2026 Stadium Guide

MetLife Stadium (New York/New Jersey)

  • Capacity: 82,500+

  • Host of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final

  • Home of Match 104

Why It Matters

MetLife Stadium will host the most important match of the tournament as the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final takes place on 19 July 2026.


Estadio Azteca (Mexico City)

  • Historic FIFA World Cup venue

  • Opening match venue

  • One of football’s most iconic stadiums

Why It Matters

Estadio Azteca becomes the first stadium in history to host matches in three different FIFA World Cups.


SoFi Stadium (Los Angeles)

  • Modern NFL and football venue

  • Multiple group stage and knockout matches

Why It Matters

One of the most technologically advanced sports venues in the world.


AT&T Stadium (Dallas)

  • Semi-final venue

  • Massive capacity

  • State-of-the-art facilities


Hard Rock Stadium (Miami)

  • Third Place Match Venue

  • Multiple group-stage fixtures


Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta)

  • Semi-final venue

  • Home to several major knockout fixtures


FIFA World Cup 2026 Stadium Experience

Every venue selected for FIFA World Cup 2026 offers modern facilities, excellent fan experiences and world-class infrastructure. From Mexico City’s football heritage to New York’s spectacular final venue, the tournament promises unforgettable moments.


FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule in Nigeria Time (WAT)

For football fans in Nigeria, following FIFA World Cup matches can be challenging due to different time zones across North America.

LiveMatch10 provides all FIFA World Cup 2026 fixtures in Nigeria Time (WAT) to help fans easily follow every game.

Why Nigeria Time Matters

Easy Match Tracking

Nigerian fans can instantly see kickoff times without calculating international time differences.

Live Match Alerts

Know exactly when your favourite teams are playing.

Better Viewing Experience

Plan your day around World Cup fixtures without confusion.

Nigeria Time Coverage

Throughout the tournament, LiveMatch10 will provide:

  • Match schedules in WAT

  • Live scores

  • Results

  • Standings

  • Predictions

  • Team news

  • Top scorers

  • Match reports


Download FIFA World Cup 2026 Fixture List

Want quick access to every FIFA World Cup match?

Download or bookmark this page and use it as your complete FIFA World Cup 2026 fixture guide.

What You’ll Find

Group Stage Fixtures

All 72 group-stage matches.

Knockout Fixtures

Round of 32, Round of 16, Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals, Third Place Match and Final.

Match Venues

Every stadium and host city.

Nigeria Time Conversion

Kickoff times suitable for Nigerian football fans.


Nigeria Fans Corner

Nigeria & FIFA World Cup 2026

Nigeria remains one of Africa’s most passionate football nations despite missing out on FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification.

Millions of Nigerian fans will continue supporting the tournament and following some of the world’s biggest football stars throughout the competition.


Why Nigeria Missed FIFA World Cup 2026

The Super Eagles entered qualification with strong expectations.

However, several factors contributed to missing qualification:

  • Dropped points in crucial matches

  • Tough qualification competition

  • Missed opportunities in key fixtures

  • Strong performances from rival nations

Although Nigeria will not participate in FIFA World Cup 2026, the country’s football future remains bright with many talented players emerging across Europe and Africa.


Nigeria’s FIFA World Cup History

Nigeria made its FIFA World Cup debut in 1994 and quickly became one of Africa’s most respected football nations.

FIFA World Cup Appearances

  • 1994

  • 1998

  • 2002

  • 2010

  • 2014

  • 2018

Best Performance

Round of 16

Nigeria has produced many memorable World Cup moments and remains one of the most recognized African football nations globally.


Nigerian Players to Watch

Victor Osimhen

One of Africa’s most dangerous strikers and among the world’s top forwards.

Ademola Lookman

Creative attacker capable of changing games through pace, skill and goals.

Victor Boniface

Powerful striker with tremendous potential and goal-scoring ability.

Samuel Chukwueze

Exciting winger known for pace and attacking creativity.

Wilfred Ndidi

Experienced midfielder providing leadership and defensive stability.


Nigerian Football Future

Despite missing FIFA World Cup 2026, Nigeria possesses enough talent to remain competitive in future international competitions.

The next generation of Super Eagles players will aim to return Nigeria to football’s biggest stage.


FIFA World Cup 2026 Frequently Asked Questions

When does FIFA World Cup 2026 start?

The tournament begins on 11 June 2026.

When is the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final?

The final takes place on 19 July 2026.

How many teams are participating?

48 teams.

How many matches will be played?

104 matches.

Which countries are hosting FIFA World Cup 2026?

United States, Canada and Mexico.

Did Nigeria qualify for FIFA World Cup 2026?

No, Nigeria did not qualify.

Where is the final being played?

MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey.

How many groups are there?

12 groups.

What is the tournament format?

Group Stage → Round of 32 → Round of 16 → Quarter-Finals → Semi-Finals → Third Place Match → Final.

Who are the favourites to win FIFA World Cup 2026?

  • Argentina

  • Brazil

  • France

  • England

  • Spain

  • Germany

Which African teams qualified?

Qualified African nations can be viewed on the FIFA World Cup teams page.

Who won the previous FIFA World Cup?

Argentina won FIFA World Cup 2022.

Who is the all-time top scorer in FIFA World Cup history?

The all-time World Cup goalscoring record belongs to Miroslav Klose.

What is the Golden Boot Award?

The Golden Boot is awarded to the tournament’s highest goalscorer.

How often are standings updated?

After every completed match.

Where can I find FIFA World Cup predictions?

Visit the World Cup Predictions section on LiveMatch10.

How can I watch FIFA World Cup matches live?

Broadcast details vary by country and region.

Which stadium hosts the most important match?

MetLife Stadium hosts the Final.

Can an African team win the World Cup?

African football continues improving and several African nations are capable of deep tournament runs.

Will FIFA World Cup 2026 be the biggest World Cup ever?

Yes. It is the largest FIFA World Cup in history with 48 teams and 104 matches.

Why is FIFA World Cup 2026 unique?

It is the first FIFA World Cup hosted by three nations and the first to feature 48 teams.


Explore More FIFA World Cup 2026 Content

FIFA World Cup 2026 Main Hub

Visit:
/world-cup-2026/

Complete coverage of fixtures, standings, results, predictions and tournament news.


FIFA World Cup 2026 Results

Visit:
/world-cup-2026-results/

Follow live scores, completed matches and tournament results.


FIFA World Cup 2026 Standings

Visit:
/world-cup-2026-standings/

Track group tables, qualification scenarios and points rankings.


FIFA World Cup 2026 Groups

Visit:
/world-cup-2026-groups/

View every World Cup group from Group A to Group L.


FIFA World Cup 2026 Predictions

Visit:
/world-cup-2026-predictions/

Read daily match previews, score predictions and football analysis.


FIFA World Cup Betting Tips

Visit:
/world-cup-betting-tips/

Expert football insights, goal trends and match analysis.


Argentina Team Guide

Visit:
/argentina-world-cup-2026/


Brazil Team Guide

Visit:
/brazil-world-cup-2026/


England Team Guide

Visit:
/england-world-cup-2026/


Final Thoughts

The FIFA World Cup 2026 promises to be the biggest football tournament ever played. With 48 teams, 104 matches, 16 host cities and six weeks of elite football action, fans around the world are preparing for an unforgettable competition.

LiveMatch10 will provide complete FIFA World Cup 2026 coverage, including schedules, fixtures, results, standings, predictions, top scorers, team news, match reports and tournament analysis tailored for football fans in Nigeria and across the globe. Stay connected throughout the tournament for real-time updates from the opening match on 11 June 2026 to the FIFA World Cup Final on 19 July 2026.