Latest Football (Soccer) News
2026 FIFA Men's World Cup Groups Announced at Washington D.C. Draw
The largest World Cup tournament ever, featuring 48 countries, has its 12 groups of four set. Defending champions Argentina will face Algeria, Austria, and Jordan in Group J. The USA will compete against Paraguay and Australia in their group, with full fixture scheduling to be confirmed on December 6.
Argentina, Reigning Champions, Start Against Algeria
Lionel Messi and Argentina, three-time FIFA World Cup champions, will begin their 2026 campaign against Algeria. They are grouped with Austria and Jordan, presenting a diverse set of opponents in Group J.
USA Drawn With Paraguay and Australia in Group Stage
The United States men's national team (USMNT) will face Paraguay and Australia, along with one qualifying team, in their group. Historically, the US has a 2-1-1 record against Australia in international friendlies.
Historic 48-Team Format Set to Expand Global Football Stage
The 2026 World Cup is the first to include 48 teams, expanding from the previous 32, divided into 12 groups of four teams each. This increase marks a major expansion in the tournament's history, allowing more nations access to the global stage.
Host Nations USA, Mexico, and Canada Confirmed in Pot One
The three host countries USA, Mexico, and Canada were placed in Pot One for the group draw, along with traditional football powers such as Spain, France, England, Brazil, and Germany. This reflects their automatic qualification and status as tournament hosts.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Political Leaders Attend Draw
The draw event took place at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., with attendance from FIFA President Gianni Infantino and heads of state including US President Donald Trump, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, highlighting the event's global significance.
LEGO Collaborates with FIFA to Create Miniature World Cup Trophy
In a unique partnership ahead of the World Cup, FIFA and The LEGO Group have created a LEGO replica of the FIFA trophy, linking football culture with popular toy branding and engaging fans, especially younger audiences.
Italy Remains the Highest-Ranked Unqualified Team
Despite being four-time World Cup champions, Italy ranks No. 12 by FIFA and has not yet qualified for the 2026 tournament. They remain the highest-ranked team still seeking qualification spots.
US Sports Icons Participate in World Cup Draw Pots
Notable American sports figures such as Tom Brady, Shaquille O'Neal, Aaron Judge, and Wayne Gretzky were involved in the ceremonial draw, adding star power and cross-sport interest to the event.
Match Scheduling to Be Confirmed on December 6, 2025
While the group compositions have been finalized, the detailed match dates and venues for the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup are scheduled to be announced by noon EST on December 6, 2025, completing the tournament's preliminary organizational setup.