The 48-team tournament kicks off Thursday with Mexico hosting South Africa at Estadio Azteca, marking an unprecedented expansion of the World Cup format.

The 2026 World Cup marks a historic expansion with three host nations, 16 stadiums, 48 teams, and new rules including increased substitutions and VAR changes.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino defended high ticket prices and US visa denials for teams, telling critics to 'chill,' amid controversy over excluded players and officials.

The USMNT aims to capitalize on growing American soccer interest with World Cup success, though analysts debate whether the nation is a true contender.

Multiple outlets publish World Cup predictions with varying views on favorites, breakout stars, and tournament outcomes as debate continues over US viability.

Mexico prepares for World Cup hosting with 17-year-old Gilberto Mora as a breakout prospect under coach Javier Aguirre, seeking their first quarterfinal breakthrough.

Spain and France lead World Cup betting odds while the USMNT receives outsized backing from bettors, creating significant exposure for sportsbooks.

Real Madrid announced Jose Mourinho's return as manager after a disappointing season, with nostalgia and unfinished business driving the appointment.

Despite Infantino's defense, six key concerns surround the 2026 World Cup including visa denials, high ticket prices, weather impacts, and organizational issues.

Thomas Tuchel's England squad showed form in a convincing victory over Costa Rica, with the team 'clicking' ahead of group-stage competition.

Nine Asian teams qualified for the World Cup, with South Korea captain Son Heung-min entering his fourth tournament as the region seeks advancement from group stage.

Scotland midfielder Ryan Christie credits Euro 2024 disappointment as motivation for a historic World Cup campaign, with analysts predicting potential for an upset.

AC Milan's Christian Pulisic faces a career-defining moment at the World Cup, with Landon Donovan understanding the pressure on the American star.

FIFA referee Omar Artan from Somalia was barred from entering the United States for the World Cup due to alleged associations with terror organizations.

The 2026 World Cup introduces significant law changes including expanded VAR usage, increased substitution allowances, and stricter timewasting enforcement.

Haiti changed their World Cup kit design days before their opener against Scotland after FIFA rejected a shirt depicting a war scene as non-compliant.

Arsenal position themselves as favorites for Julián Álvarez amid a sensational transfer bid while Barcelona and Real Madrid reportedly struggled with competing offers.

US defender Chris Richards says he has recovered from a sprained ankle and is ready to face Paraguay in the USMNT's World Cup opener.

Argentina defeated Iceland 3-0 in a warmup match while Lionel Messi faces a special reunion in the tournament with Danish-Icelandic player Daniel Gudjohnsen.

FIFA and the global players' union Fifpro agreed to a historic accord that provides players representation in football's decision-making structures.

Portugal defeated Nigeria in a warmup match, with Cristiano Ronaldo missing key chances but the team preparing for World Cup competition.

With Mexico City hosting the World Cup for a historic third occasion, protesters plan to use the global platform to highlight social and political causes.

Australia's Mohamed Touré and Nestory Irankunda form a crucial partnership in the Socceroos' World Cup squad, bound by mateship that propelled both toward stardom.

Jordan begins its historic first World Cup appearance with training sessions at the University of Portland in preparation for the tournament.