The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just days away, with national teams using the final week to fine-tune rosters and tactics through a series of international friendlies.
International friendlies this week
Here are some of the remaining friendlies scheduled before the tournament begins (all times Eastern and subject to change):
Tuesday, June 9
Wednesday, June 10
These matches give coaches one final opportunity to evaluate players, test lineups and make last-minute adjustments before World Cup play begins.
When does the 2026 FIFA World Cup start?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins Thursday, June 11, with Mexico opening the tournament against South Africa.
The competition runs through July 19, when the championship match will be played in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
2026 FIFA World Cup schedule
The 2026 tournament will be the largest in FIFA history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Match times will vary depending on the host city and time zone.
How to watch World Cup matches
In the United States, World Cup matches will air on:
How to stream World Cup games
Fans without cable can stream matches through:
All 104 matches will be available through FIFA’s U.S. broadcast and streaming partners.
Contributing: USA Today Network
—Madison Scott is a New York Connect reporter, covering entertainment, breaking and consumer news, and trending topics with a focus on stories that matter to readers across New York State. She also has an interest in how the system helps or doesn’t help families with missing loved ones. She can be reached at MDScott@USATodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: 2026 FIFA World Cup starts Thursday: How to watch, full schedule and final friendlies
Reporting by Madison Scott, New York Connect Team / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Madison Scott, New York Connect Team | USA TODAY Network
