The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is set to begin on June 11 and conclude on July 19, marking the first time that the tournament will feature 48 participating teams. The full calendar for the tournament was released at the end of the previous year, highlighting a total of 104 matches, a significant increase compared to past editions. This expansion of teams and matches reflects FIFA's ongoing efforts to make the World Cup more inclusive and engaging for a global audience.

The inaugural match of the tournament is scheduled to take place at the historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, where Mexico will face South Africa at 4 PM Argentine time. This match is particularly noteworthy as it echoes the first game of the 2010 World Cup held in South Africa, where the teams ended in a 1-1 draw. The choice of the venue and the matchup is symbolic, connecting past tournaments while also kicking off an unprecedented edition of the World Cup.

With Argentina placed in Group J, expectations are high for the national team as they will seek to defend their title after winning the 2022 World Cup. As the tournament approaches, fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the new format and the excitement it promises, with many eyes on how the expanded competition will affect team strategies and match dynamics. This World Cup is poised to be a significant milestone in sports history, showcasing the evolution of international football on a grand stage.