The 2026 FIFA World Cup continues tonight with two more host nations, Canada and the USA, making their tournament debuts. Both teams will be looking to emulate co-hosts Mexico, who secured a comfortable 2-0 win against South Africa yesterday, joining South Korea at the top of Group A with three points.
First up, Canada will take to the pitch at BMO Field in Toronto for their Group B opener against Bosnia & Herzegovina. The match kicks off at 8pm UK time (3pm local) and will be broadcast live on ITV 1, ITV X, STV, and STV Player. Canada's manager, Jesse Marsch, expressed his readiness for the challenge, stating, "If you do this for a living, this is where you want to be. I came here to lead them in the World Cup – in the home World Cup. I wanted this responsibility." Despite a preparation period reportedly impacted by injuries, Marsch remains undaunted by the expectations on home soil.
Later, the USA will commence their Group D campaign against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. This fixture is scheduled for 2am Saturday UK time (6pm local on Friday evening) and can be watched on BBC One, BBC iPlayer, and the BBC Sport website. USA coach Mauricio Pochettino, who has extensive knowledge of South American football, warned that Paraguay would be formidable opponents. "I know very well the mentality, the aggressivity, the competitivity," Pochettino remarked, highlighting Paraguay's strong performance in qualification, which included victories against footballing giants Argentina and Brazil.
Pochettino emphasised his team's strong physical, tactical, and emotional condition ahead of their home tournament, but stressed the need for preparation against Gustavo Alfaro's side. The opening matches for both Canada and USA are crucial as they aim to build momentum in front of their home crowds and navigate their respective groups.
Looking ahead to tomorrow, the action continues with Qatar vs Switzerland in Group B, Brazil vs Morocco and Haiti vs Scotland in Group C, and Australia vs Turkey in Group D. These matches will be spread across various venues in the host nations.
Source: FIFA