Colombia, Portugal face debutants Uzbekistan, Congo DR
All the anticipation gives way to the nerves and excitement of opening-day matches in Groups L and K, where England's game with Croatia brings together two heavyweights with undefeated European qualifying records, who also met in the Russia 2018 semi-finals.
The Group L focus switches from Dallas to Toronto when Ghana, impressive in their CAF qualification group, test out their FIFA World Cup 2026™ credentials against a Panama side making just their second appearance in the global showpiece.
Group K will spotlight two more intriguing contests. Congo DR open their first tournament in 52 years in Houston against Portugal – and a true World Cup perennial in Cristiano Ronaldo – while Mexico City will witness the tournament bow of Uzbekistan. The AFC team, led by 2006 World Cup winner Fabio Cannavaro, face highly talented South American opposition in the shape of Colombia.
England v Croatia
Group L
Wednesday, 17 June | 15:00 | Dallas Stadium
Match preview
England: News, interviews and videos
Croatia: News, interviews and videos
Ghana v Panama
Group L
Wednesday, 17 June | 19:00 | Toronto Stadium
Match preview
Ghana: News, interviews and videos
Panama: News, interviews and videos
Portugal v Congo DR
Group K
Wednesday, 17 June | 12:00 | Houston Stadium
Match preview
Portugal: News, interviews and videos
Congo DR: News, interviews and videos
Uzbekistan v Colombia
Group K
Wednesday, 17 June | 20:00 | Mexico City Stadium