The countdown is on. As the biggest-ever edition of the global showcase, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to make history as the first tournament hosted by three nations: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. With an expanded field of 48 teams competing across 16 host cities, the world’s game is about to take over North America like never before.
With exactly 100 days until kickoff on June 11, the energy in Atlanta—one of the primary host cities—is reaching a fever pitch. Whether you’re a die-hard member of the 17s or a casual sports fan, here is your essential guide to navigating the 104-match marathon.
How to Watch: Every Match, Every Moment
For the first time, fans will have unprecedented access to the tournament across the FOX family of networks. The tournament will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, culminating in a massive final at New York New Jersey Stadium.
Broadcast Breakdown:
- Total Matches: 104 matches, all airing live.
- FOX: 70 matches, including the most high-profile fixtures.
- FS1: 34 matches.
- Streaming: Every match will be available live and on-demand via the FOX One and FOX Sports apps.
- Prime Time Glory: A record 40 matches will air in prime time, ensuring the largest possible audience in the U.S. can witness the action.
The Road to Glory: USMNT Group Stage Schedule
Christian Pulisic and the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) now have a clear path to the knockout rounds. The U.S. has been drawn into Group D, featuring a mix of familiar foes and a high-stakes European playoff winner.
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Kickoff (ET) |
| June 12 | Paraguay | Los Angeles Stadium | 9:00 PM |
| June 19 | Australia | Seattle Stadium | 3:00 PM |
| June 25 | UEFA Playoff C* | Los Angeles Stadium | 10:00 PM |
| *Playoff C could feature Slovakia, Kosovo, Türkiye, or Romania. |
Alt-text: A stunning view of Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California, prepared to host the USMNT’s opening World Cup match.
Atlanta’s Starring Role: A World-Class Host
Atlanta has officially cemented its status as one of the premier soccer hubs in the world. As one of 11 U.S. host cities, Mercedes-Benz Stadium will host eight matches, including the prestigious semifinals.
The city is already buzzing with activity as Uzbekistan’s National Team recently chose Atlanta United’s training ground as their official base camp. Furthermore, FIFA recently held a massive team workshop at the Westin Peachtree Plaza to finalize logistics for the 40 qualifying nations already sending representatives to the city.
Qualified Teams and The Final Push
As of March 12, 42 of the 48 spots have been claimed. The final six “golden tickets” will be determined at the end of March through the intercontinental and UEFA playoffs.
Group Stage Highlights:
- Group K (The “Atlanta” Group): Features Portugal and Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan will play their final group game right here in Atlanta on June 27.
- Group J: Defending champions Argentina lead a group featuring Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.
- Group G: Faces geopolitical intrigue as FIFA navigates the U.S.-Iran conflict while both teams prepare for their match in the Seattle/L.A. corridor.
Alt-text: A map of North America showing the 16 host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including Atlanta, Mexico City, and Toronto.
What This Means: A Legacy Beyond the Pitch
The 2026 World Cup is more than just a tournament; it’s a catalyst for the growth of soccer in Georgia. Between the FOX 5 “Encore” broadcast partnership and the GA 100 mini-pitch initiative, the legacy of this tournament will be felt in neighborhood parks across the state for decades.
Next Steps for Fans:
- Check the Schedule: Bookmark the full FIFA schedule to plan your watch parties.
- Get Tickets: If you haven’t secured your seats yet, the FIFA ticket portal is the only place for official sales.
- Local Events: Stay tuned for news on the Decatur WatchFest, which will serve as a hub for fans in the Metro Atlanta area.
Which matchup are you most excited to see at Mercedes-Benz Stadium? Can the USMNT make a deep run to the final in New York New Jersey?
Join the conversation in the comments below or tag us on social media using #WorldCup2026 and #ATL26!
Author: Quique Lopez
Quique Lopez doesn’t just cover soccer—he deconstructs it with the precision of a veteran and the wit of a storyteller. A former player who sees the pitch as both a tactical chessboard and a cultural stage, Quique balances sharp critiques with a genuine love for the game’s soul. He’s as quick to call out the ego of a superstar as he is to find the hidden beauty in a local derby.