The 2026 World Cup draw completely defined the twelve groups of the initial phase. With 48 national teams competing for the first time in history, the tournament promises exciting matchups. The 42 qualified nations were distributed into competitively balanced groups. The six remaining spots will be completed through European and intercontinental playoffs coming soon. The group stage begins on June 11, 2026 with the inaugural match Mexico versus South Africa.
What are the twelve groups of the 2026 World Cup?
Group A brings together Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, and the winner of European playoff D. Mexico opens the tournament as primary host, facing South Africa at Estadio Azteca. For Group B, there are Canada, Switzerland, Qatar, and European playoff A winner. Then, Group C places Brazil as the top seed, accompanied by Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti. In Group D, there are the United States, Paraguay, Australia, and European playoff C winner. Next, Group E has Germany leading alongside Ecuador, Ivory Coast, and Curaçao.
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On the other hand, Group F will bring together the Netherlands, Japan, Tunisia, and European playoff B winner. Group G places Belgium, Iran, Egypt, and New Zealand competing together. For Group H, a clash of champions is expected: Spain and Uruguay against Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia. Then, Group I features France, Senegal, Norway, and the intercontinental playoff winner. Group J has Argentina as defending champion facing Algeria, Austria, and Jordan. Group K
