โ† Blog

13 June 2026

World Cup 2026 schedule: every group-stage fixture

The 2026 World Cup is the biggest ever: 48 teams, 12 groups, and 72 group-stage matches across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Hereโ€™s the full group-stage schedule - and the easiest way to predict every game.

How the group stage works

  • 12 groups (Aโ€“L) of four teams each, playing three matches apiece.
  • The group stage runs 11โ€“27 June 2026.
  • The top two from every group, plus the eight best third-placed teams, advance to a 32-team knockout round.
  • Knockouts begin 28 June; the final is 19 July 2026.

Every group

Tap any group for its live table and full fixture list, or a team for its squad and matches.

Turn the schedule into a game

Knowing the fixtures is one thing - having a stake in them is better. With a free prediction league you forecast the score of every match on this schedule, points are scored automatically, and a live leaderboard tracks whoโ€™s calling it best.

Start a free league for your office or mates, or join the global league and take on everyone.

FAQ

When does the World Cup 2026 group stage start?
The group stage runs from 11 to 27 June 2026. Knockouts begin on 28 June and the final is on 19 July.
How many teams and groups are there?
48 teams in 12 groups of four (A to L), playing 72 group-stage matches in total.
How do teams qualify from the group stage?
The top two from each group, plus the eight best third-placed teams, advance to a 32-team knockout round.
How can I predict the fixtures?
Start a free Verdocast prediction league, predict the score of every match, and a live leaderboard scores it automatically.

Turn the World Cup into your teamโ€™s ritual

A free prediction league anyone can play, live in two minutes.