Kenya Sport

2026 FIFA World Cup: Portugal Draws, England Triumphs in Early Matches

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially started, marking the largest tournament in history with 48 nations competing in 12 groups. The event unfolds across eleven U.S. cities, three Mexican locations, and two Canadian venues, promising an intense month of soccer action.

Groups at a Glance

  • Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Czechia, South Korea
  • Group B: Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Switzerland, Qatar
  • Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Scotland, Haiti
  • Group D: USA, Australia, Türkiye, Paraguay
  • Group E: Germany, Curaçao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador
  • Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Egypt, Sweden, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, New Zealand
  • Group G: Belgium, Spain, Uruguay, Cape Verde, New Zealand, Egypt, Iran
  • Group H: Spain, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay, Cape Verde
  • Group I: France, Norway, Senegal, Iraq
  • Group J: Argentina, Austria, Jordan, Algeria
  • Group K: Portugal, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, Colombia
  • Group L: England, Ghana, Panama, Croatia

Early Match Highlights

On June 17, Portugal settled for a 1-1 draw against DR Congo at Houston's NRG Stadium. Meanwhile, England secured a 4-2 victory over Croatia at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Ghana edged Panama 1-0 in Toronto’s BMO Field.

Recent Results

Matches from earlier days saw Mexico defeat South Africa 2-0, while South Korea narrowly beat Czechia 2-1. Canada and Bosnia & Herzegovina played to a 1-1 draw. The USA opened strongly with a 4-1 win over Paraguay. Germany dominated Curaçao 7-1, and Sweden overwhelmed Tunisia 5-1. France topped Senegal 3-1, and Argentina secured a 3-0 victory against Algeria.

Where to Watch

The World Cup matches are spread across major stadiums in North America. Fans can catch thrilling contests at iconic venues including SoFi Stadium in California, Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, and MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

2026 FIFA World Cup Schedule and Early Match Results