United States and Canada open 2026 World Cup campaigns on home soil
The United States and Canada will play their opening fixtures of the 2026 World Cup on Friday, hosting Paraguay and Bosnia-Herzegovina respectively.
The co-hosts are eager to make an immediate impact as the expanded 48-team tournament gets fully underway across North America.
Los Angeles provides the backdrop for the Stars and Stripes, who take on South American opposition in their crucial first group stage encounter.
Meanwhile, the Canadian national team will welcome their European challengers to Toronto.
Early tournament drama sets the stage
The global showcase has already delivered significant talking points following the initial round of fixtures.
Fellow tournament hosts Mexico secured a 2-0 victory over South Africa in a highly physical encounter marred by multiple red cards.
Elsewhere, South Korea demonstrated remarkable resilience to overcome an early deficit and defeat Czechia 2-1.
A historic competition unfolds
This iteration of the premier international tournament is the largest event in football history.
Matches are being distributed across three nations, testing the logistical preparations of the entire continent.
Anticipation continues to build across the host cities as the remaining contenders finalise their tactical preparations.
Away from the football pitch, Manchester City striker Erling Haaland was among the high-profile sporting spectators soaking up the North American atmosphere at the Stanley Cup.
