The full line-up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been confirmed, with DR Congo and Iraq securing the final two spots to complete the expanded 48-team tournament.
The competition, set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July, marks the first time the World Cup will feature such a large number of teams.
Qualification, which began in September 2023, concluded after a lengthy global process spanning six confederations and culminating in European and intercontinental play-offs.
The tournament will introduce a new format, expanding from 32 to 48 teams and featuring 12 groups of four.
The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed sides, will progress to a newly created round of 32 in the knockout stage.
In total, 104 matches will be played across 16 host cities, making it the biggest World Cup ever staged.
The opening match will see Mexico face South Africa at the iconic Estadio Azteca, while the final will be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
A wide range of kick-off times has been introduced, meaning some fixtures will take place late at night or early in the morning for viewers in Europe.
Nearly half of the group-stage matches are scheduled between midnight and 05:00 BST, though evening kick-offs remain the most common.
Among the favourites to lift the trophy are European champions Spain, who boast a talented squad featuring rising star Lamine Yamal and Ballon d’Or winner Rodri.
England are also strongly fancied after an impressive qualifying campaign under Thomas Tuchel, while France, runners-up in 2022, bring a formidable attacking lineup led by Kylian Mbappe.
Defending champions Argentina remain a major threat following their dominant South American qualifying performance, and Brazil, despite inconsistent form, cannot be ruled out.
Several teams are tipped as potential surprise contenders. Norway, inspired by prolific striker Erling Haaland, have returned to the World Cup for the first time since 1998 after a flawless qualifying run.
Morocco and Egypt are also expected to make an impact, alongside Japan, who impressed defensively throughout qualification. Colombia and Canada could emerge as dark horses, particularly with favorable group-stage draws.
The 2026 edition will also feature four World Cup debutants: Curacao, Cape Verde, Uzbekistan, and Jordan.
