2026 World Cup Groups Revealed Following Thursday’s Draw
Miami, FL – February 22, 2024 – The stage is set for the expanded 48-team 2026 FIFA World Cup, as the tournament’s group stage draw concluded Thursday evening at the James L. Knight Center in Miami. The draw determined the six groups of four teams, and eight groups of three, initiating the road to the final tournament hosted jointly by the United states, Canada, and Mexico.
This expanded format marks a significant shift for the World Cup, increasing the number of participating nations and matches. The draw impacts national teams across the globe, dictating their pathways to qualification and potential matchups throughout the tournament. The competition, scheduled for June 11 to July 19, 2026, promises increased opportunities for emerging footballing nations and a more inclusive global spectacle.
here’s a breakdown of the finalized groups:
* Group A: Mexico, South Korea, South Africa, Winner of Repechage D
* Group B: Canada, Switzerland, Qatar, Repechage A Winner
* Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Scotland, Haiti
* Group D: United States, Australia, Paraguay, Winner of Repechage C
* Group E: Germany, ecuador, Ivory Coast, Curacao
* group F: Netherlands, Japan, Tunisia, Winner of Repechage B
* Group G: Belgium, iran, Egypt, New Zealand
* Group H: Spain, uruguay, Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde
* Group I: France, Senegal, Norway, Winner of Repechage 2
* Group J: Argentina, Austria, Algeria, Jordan
* Group K: Portugal, Colombia, Uzbekistan, Winner of Repechage 1
* Group L: England, Croatia, Panama, Ghana
The “Repechage” slots will be filled by winners of six intercontinental playoff matches scheduled for March 2026, completing the 48-team field. These playoffs will involve teams from across Asia, Africa, North and Central America, South America, and Oceania.
the 2026 World Cup will utilize a format where the top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, will advance to the knockout stage. This expanded structure aims to provide more competitive opportunities and showcase the growing global talent in men’s soccer.
