The full draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage has been officially confirmed. The ceremony took place at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., with United States President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino supervising the event. This marks a key milestone as preparations intensify for what will be the biggest World Cup in history.
The 2026 tournament will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada—the first World Cup to feature three host nations. It will also be the first edition with 48 teams instead of the traditional 32. FIFA introduced the expanded format to allow greater global participation, giving more countries, including smaller football nations, a chance to compete on the world stage. The teams have now been grouped into 12 groups of four.
For many fans across Africa, including Nigeria—even though the Super Eagles are still fighting for qualification—the draw provides a clearer picture of what to expect next year. Some African teams have been handed difficult groups, while others will feel confident about their chances.
Group A contains Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, and the winner of Play-off D. As co-hosts, Mexico will enjoy massive home support, but South Africa will hope to pull off surprises as they did in 2010.
Group B features Canada, the winner of Play-off A, Qatar, and Switzerland. Canada, another host nation, will see this as a chance to shine after making their World Cup return in 2022.
Group C, one of the most talked-about groups, has Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland. Morocco, Africa’s best-performing team at the 2022 World Cup, will once again aim to prove they can challenge the world’s elite.
In Group D, the United States—also co-hosts—will face Paraguay, Australia, and the winner of Play-off C. The Americans will be under pressure to deliver strong performances at home.
Group E places Germany alongside Curaçao, Ivory Coast, and Ecuador. Ivory Coast, one of Africa’s strong football nations, will be hoping to show their strength against Germany’s well-organised midfield and attack.
Group F includes the Netherlands, Japan, the winner of Play-off B, and Tunisia. Tunisia, known for their defensive discipline, will need to be at their best to progress.
Group G matches Belgium, Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand. Egypt, led by top stars such as Mohamed Salah, will see this as a balanced group with real opportunities to advance.
Group H looks challenging with Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay. Cape Verde will be making a rare appearance at the global tournament and will be underdogs in a group filled with experienced teams.
In Group I, world champions France will battle Senegal, the winner of Play-off 2, and Norway. Senegal, the current African champions, will attract attention with their fast and physical style of play.
Group J features Argentina, Algeria, Austria, and Jordan. Algeria will aim to regain their reputation after missing the 2022 World Cup, but will have a tough task facing defending champions Argentina.
Group K includes Portugal, the winner of Play-off 1, Colombia, and Uzbekistan. Portugal, depending on squad selection, may still feature Cristiano Ronaldo, who continues to play at a high level despite his age.
Finally, Group L offers an exciting duel as England, Croatia, Panama, and Ghana face off. Ghana, one of Africa’s most passionate football nations, will see this as a chance for redemption after a difficult run in recent tournaments.
As the world counts down to the opening match in June 2026, attention will now shift to how teams prepare for the expanded tournament. With more matches, more teams, and more drama expected, the 2026 World Cup promises to be one of the most exciting editions ever.
