The Kickoff desk

News & Analysis

Guides, explainers and analysis for the first 48-team World Cup. Every story is human-reviewed, sourced and bylined.

World Cup 2026 Opening Weekend: What to Watch as 48 Nations Begin

From the Azteca opener to the USA’s bow at SoFi Stadium, here is your guide to the first three days of World Cup 2026 — every host nation, the must-see ties and how to follow along.

Kickoff EditorialJune 8, 20263 min read

(Credit: Kickoff XI)

Analysis

Ruthless Tuchel: How England’s Bold Squad Calls Shape Their World Cup 2026

Thomas Tuchel left Palmer, Foden and Alexander-Arnold at home and built England’s World Cup squad around Kane and Bellingham. A Group L opener with Croatia awaits in Dallas.

Kickoff EditorialJune 8, 20263 min read

Kickoff is an independent fan project and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with FIFA.