The FIFA World Cup 2026 moves into its second day this Friday, with co-hosts Canada and the United States (US) taking centre stage as they begin their campaigns on home soil.
The tournament officially kicked off on Thursday, when Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the opening match, giving the hosts a winning start to the competition.
Now attention shifts to Canada, who will play their first-ever FIFA World Cup match as tournament hosts when they face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the opening Group B fixture in Toronto.
Bosnia and Herzegovina arrive at the tournament after a memorable qualification campaign that included a play-off victory over Italy, setting up what promises to be a significant occasion for both nations.
Later in the day, Los Angeles Stadium will host the United States’ Group D opener against Paraguay. Under coach Mauricio Pochettino, the Stars and Stripes begin their World Cup journey against a Paraguayan side that impressed during CONMEBOL qualifying, recording victories over both Argentina and Brazil.
The matches mark a milestone for Canada and the US, almost exactly eight years after they were appointed to co-host the FIFA World Cup 2026 alongside Mexico.
With Mexico already off to a winning start, the focus now turns to their North American partners as they look to make their mark on football’s biggest stage.
–WendyMothata
