The FIFA World Cup 2026 has roared into life with 12 matches played and an extraordinary 38 goals scored across the opening round of fixtures. From co-host blowouts to stunning comebacks, the expanded 48-team format is already delivering drama in abundance.

Co-hosts open proceedings

The tournament's first match took place on June 11, when co-hosts Mexico brushed aside South Africa 2-0. Raul Jiminez and Julian Quinones got the goals, though the contest was marked by two red cards for South Africa and a sending-off for the victors as well.

Co-hosts Canada followed on June 12, drawing 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina in Group B. An early Jovo Lukic strike put Bosnia ahead, but substitute Cyle Larin equalised after a breathtaking Sead Kolasinac goal-line clearance had denied the Canadians. The third co-host, USA, proved the strongest of the trio, hammering Paraguay 4-1 on June 13.

Goals, drama, and a historic Germany

South Korea came from behind to defeat Czechia 2-1 on June 12, netting in the 67th and 80th minutes after falling behind. Qatar and Switzerland shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw on June 13, with Miro Muheim's own goal for Switzerland arriving deep into stoppage time in the 94th minute.

Brazil and Morocco also drew 1-1 on June 13 in one of the tournament's most-watched clashes, with Morocco impressing as the dominant force throughout. Scotland claimed a famous 1-0 victory over Haiti on June 14 — their first World Cup win in 36 years — thanks to a John McGinn strike in the 28th minute.

Australia edged Turkey 2-0 in Vancouver on June 14, with Nestory Irankunda opening the scoring and Connor Metcalfe wrapping it up with 15 minutes remaining. Germany delivered a statement performance the same day, thrashing Curacao 7-1 — their third World Cup fixture this century in which they have scored seven or more goals.

Netherlands and Japan produced the tournament's most entertaining encounter to date, drawing 2-2 after Japan twice clawed back deficits to level the match. Cote d'Ivoire then edged Ecuador 1-0 late on June 15, with Amad Diallo's instinctive finish settling the affair.

Sweden closed out the opening round in style on June 15, beating Tunisia 5-1. Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyokeres, Yasin Ayari, and Mattias Svanberg all got on the scoresheet in an impressive display.

Full results

Jun 11: Mexico 2-0 South Africa
Jun 12: South Korea 2-1 Czechia
Jun 12: Canada 1-1 Bosnia and Herzegovina
Jun 13: USA 4-1 Paraguay
Jun 13: Qatar 1-1 Switzerland
Jun 13: Brazil 1-1 Morocco
Jun 14: Haiti 0-1 Scotland
Jun 14: Australia 2-0 Turkiye
Jun 14: Germany 7-1 Curacao
Jun 14: Netherlands 2-2 Japan
Jun 15: Cote d'Ivoire 1-0 Ecuador
Jun 15: Sweden 5-1 Tunisia