The era of catching every World Cup match is fading for many fans. With the tournament expanding to 48 teams, a total of 72 group matches will be played just to narrow the field down to 32 teams—the same number that has been featured in the last seven editions. This means supporters will have to endure over 108 hours of group-stage football, not counting injury time and breaks, to reach a familiar format since 1998.
Given the inconvenient kickoff times for audiences worldwide, it will be a challenge to watch every game. Therefore, we have selected a more digestible list of must-watch matches during the group stage.
Mexico v South Africa
11 June, 8pm (all times BST)
Beginning the tournament is a rematch of the 2010 World Cup’s opening match, where Mexico faces South Africa at the historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. This legendary venue hosted the World Cup finals in 1970 and 1986, featuring unforgettable moments, including Pelé’s Brazil triumph and Diego Maradona’s magic.
The 2010 encounter is famously remembered for Siphiwe Tshabalala’s stunning “goal for all Africa.” With Mexico playing on home turf, expect a lively and passionate crowd reminiscent of Johannesburg’s atmosphere 16 years ago, promising an exciting spectacle in front of a packed stadium holding 87,500 fans.
Brazil v Morocco
The new tournament setup has spread the top teams across 12 groups, but fans won’t have to wait long for a thrilling match. On the third day, five-time champions Brazil will take on the unexpected 2022 semi-finalists, Morocco, in a highly anticipated showdown.
Brazil boasts a squad full of attacking talent, with Carlo Ancelotti selecting six midfielders and nine forwards, recently employing an aggressive 4-2-4 formation.
Meanwhile, Morocco enters the tournament following a more offensive strategy at the Africa Cup of Nations, likely showing a more proactive approach than in Qatar. This clash in New Jersey is set to be captivating.
Netherlands v Japan
The opening match of Group F is another highlight. The Netherlands is a strong contender with a wealth of talent, yet their recent 1-0 loss to Algeria in a friendly highlights some issues.
Japan, although not expected to win the World Cup, has a history of toppling giants and could challenge the Netherlands. Their impressive victories against Germany and Spain in Qatar 2022 show their capability.
A win for Japan could open up the group significantly and enhance their chances of topping it, as they did last time. The Opta supercomputer estimates a 26.7% chance of this happening, which would increase dramatically with a victory in their first match.
Spain v Cape Verde
As the reigning European champions and favorites for the World Cup, Spain begins their campaign against the underdogs of Cape Verde, who are making their tournament debut. This tiny nation has defied the odds to qualify.
This match stands out as one likely to deliver a significant scoreline. Spain showcased their prowess in their last World Cup opener, winning 7-0 against Costa Rica.
France v Senegal
The two teams have met only once, in a historic match where France shockingly lost 1-0 to Senegal in 2002, marking the start of a nightmarish World Cup for the French.
Despite dominating that encounter, France failed to score. They will be eager to seek revenge in their Group I opener this time, making this match impossible to overlook amidst the narratives surrounding it.
Iraq v Norway
Iraq returns for their second World Cup, their first since 1986, when they exited without a win. They aim to make a more positive impression in their 2026 campaign, beginning in Boston.
Norway, however, poses a formidable challenge. They were the highest-scoring team in European qualifying, netting 37 goals, led by stars like Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard. Norway could be dark horses in the tournament and will aim to assert their strength in this opener.
Ecuador also had a remarkable qualifying campaign, finishing second to Argentina with only two losses and five goals conceded, making them a contender for a surprise performance.
They might need to be aggressive against Curaçao, the smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup. Curaçao will already have faced Germany and may require a result in this match, adding to the intrigue.
Scotland v Brazil
Scotland returns to the World Cup for the first time this century, and fans are expected to travel in large numbers to North America. Their match against Brazil has been highly anticipated since the draw was announced, marking a rematch of their opening game in 1998.
Since then, Scotland has participated in major tournaments, most recently Euro 2024, where they suffered a heavy 5-1 defeat to Germany in their opening match. They hope to learn from that experience and perform better this time, as they have yet to advance past the group stage in 12 attempts. Will this be their breakthrough?
DR Congo v Uzbekistan
This clash lacks historical prestige, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo having played at the World Cup once in 1974, and Uzbekistan making their debut.
Neither team has high hopes of advancing past Group K, likely dominated by Portugal and Colombia. However, their chances of moving forward as one of the best third-placed teams may hinge on this match, making it crucial.
Jordan v Argentina
Jordan is considered one of the weakest teams in the tournament, while Argentina enters as the reigning champions, setting the stage for a potential record-breaking victory margin.
Nonetheless, Argentina suffered a shocking 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia in their last World Cup, despite dominating possession. The holders have faced challenges in past tournaments, failing to progress from the group stage in four of the last six editions. The new format should reduce elimination risk, yet expectations can weigh heavily on teams.
This coverage is brought to you by Opta Analyst.
