The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off on June 12, 2026, with an opening day that delivered five goals, four water breaks, three red cards, and a glittering opening ceremony. The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, began with a match at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
In the opening match, the host nation United States faced a tough opponent, with the game featuring multiple red cards and VAR interventions. The match also included hydration breaks due to the high temperatures, a new feature for this World Cup. The opening ceremony, held before the match, featured performances by global artists and a showcase of the host nations' cultures.
Day 2 of the tournament will see Canada and the United States continue their campaigns, with Canada playing their first match. The tournament, expanded to 48 teams, will run until July 19, 2026, with matches across 16 venues in the three host countries.