FIFA World Cup Guide for New Fans

It’s difficult to miss the buzz and excitement surrounding the Fifa World Cup.

Football (or soccer, as they call it in North America) is the world’s most popular sport and the World Cup is the most prestigious prize of them all.

For the first time in the tournament’s nearly 100-year history, it will be jointly hosted by three countries – Mexico, Canada and the United States.

The opening match will be played in Mexico City on 11 June. And the final is in the US state of New Jersey on 19 July.

For anyone new to the beautiful game, here’s what you need to know:

The World Cup is staged every four years. The 2026 tournament is the largest ever, with 48 countries competing.

Using world rankings, the teams have been drawn into 12 groups of four countries.

The top two teams in each group automatically go through to the next phase – which is known as the round of 32.

Winning a match earns a team three points. Draws (or tying the match) gives both teams one point. A loss means zero points.

The World Cup is a spectacle that brings together nations from around the globe, showcasing their skills and determination.

With the tournament just around the corner, fans are eagerly anticipating the action on the pitch.