World Cup 2026 Group Stage: Fixtures, Groups & What to Expect

Why the 2026 World Cup is different

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the first to feature 48 nations — up from 32 in previous tournaments. It is hosted across three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The expanded format means more group stage games, more nations, and more upsets to predict.

Group stage format

The 48 teams are split into 12 groups of 4. Each team plays the other three teams in their group once, giving 3 matches per team and 6 matches per group. The top 2 teams from each group advance to the knockout round, along with the 8 best third-placed teams.

For WC26 Predict, you need to predict the exact scoreline of all 72 group stage matches. That is a lot of predictions — but it is also a lot of opportunities to earn points.

The 12 groups

The 2026 FIFA World Cup groups are as follows (subject to official FIFA confirmation):

For live group standings during the tournament, visit the Groups page on WC26 Predict.

Key dates for the group stage

All fixtures are listed on the Fixtures page with kick-off times.

Which matches should you focus on for WC26 Predict?

Every match is equally worth predicting in WC26 Predict — all 72 group stage games carry the same points weighting. However, the most valuable predictions are exact scores (3 points) rather than just correct results (1 point). Focus on games where you have strong knowledge of both teams.

The group stage final matchdays are particularly important — these are when the standings are decided and upsets are most likely, since teams already qualified may rotate their squads. This creates opportunities for outsider scores that could separate you from the pack on the leaderboard.

Following the groups in real time

WC26 Predict has live group standings, live scores, and match detail pages for every fixture. You can follow how every nation is progressing through the group stage without leaving the app.