The official draw for the 2026 World Cup group stage took place Saturday in Zurich, Switzerland, setting the path for international competition across six confederations. Featuring 48 teams-an expansion from the traditional 32-the tournamentS group assignments are now finalized, promising a diverse and challenging road to the knockout phase. the draw determines the initial matchups for the tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, scheduled to begin in June 2026. Below is a breakdown of each group following the completion of the draw.
World Cup Group Stage Draw Revealed
The stage is set for the upcoming World Cup tournament, with the official group draws now complete. The competition promises a thrilling month of international soccer as teams battle for a place in the knockout rounds.
Group A will feature Mexico, South Korea, South Africa, and the winner of Playoff D – a contest between Denmark, North Macedonia, Czech Republic, and Ireland.
Group B pits Canada against Switzerland, Qatar, and the victor of Playoff A, which includes Italy, Northern Ireland, Wales, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Group C is headlined by Brazil, alongside Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti.
Group D will see the United States take on Paraguay and Australia, with the final spot determined by Playoff C, contested by Turkey, Kosovo, Romania, and Slovakia.
Group E features Germany, Ivory Coast, Ecuador, and Curacao.
Group F includes the Netherlands, Japan, Tunisia, and the winner of Playoff B – a matchup between Ukraine, Sweden, Poland, and Albania.
Group G will be a clash between Belgium, Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand.
Group H is comprised of Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, and Cape Verde.
Group I will see France compete against Senegal, Norway, and the winner of Playoff 2, featuring Iraq, Bolivia, and Suriname.
Group J features Argentina, Austria, Algeria, and Jordan.
Group K will pit Portugal against Colombia, Uzbekistan, and the winner of Playoff 1, a battle between New Caledonia, Jamaica, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Group L rounds out the draw with England, Croatia, Panama, and Ghana. The matchups are expected to deliver intense competition and showcase the global talent within the sport.
