Don’t have time to watch 72 World Cup group games? Here are 10 not to miss
With the 2026 World Cup expanding to 48 teams, The Guardian provides a curated list of 10 must-watch group stage matches. The guide helps fans navigate the 72-game schedule, highlighting historic venues like Mexico City's Estadio Azteca.
Why it matters
The expansion of the World Cup significantly increases the volume of matches, making fan engagement and scheduling more complex for global audiences.
Erling Haaland of Norway, Ismaila Sarr and Idrissa Gueye of Senegal, Scott McTominay of Scotland Composite: Guardian Design View image in fullscreen Erling Haaland of Norway, Ismaila Sarr and Idrissa Gueye of Senegal, Scott McTominay of Scotland Composite: Guardian Design Guardian Sport Network World Cup 2026 Don’t have time to watch 72 World Cup group games? Here are 10 not to miss Watching 108 hours of football is not for everyone but there are some crackers in the group stage, including Scotland v Brazil, Netherlands v Japan and France v Senegal
The content is a neutral, informative sports guide with no political or social agenda.
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