The long-awaited draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has finally taken place, setting the stage for a historic tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The event, held at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC, delivered several compelling narratives, headlined by a major rematch for England from their 2018 campaign.
England's Path Features Familiar Foes
Gareth Southgate's England side will begin their quest for glory with a highly-anticipated reunion against Croatia in Group L. This fixture echoes the 2018 World Cup semi-final in Russia, where Croatia triumphed 2-1 after extra time to end England's memorable run. The group also presents a second rerun from that tournament, as England will face Panama, whom they defeated 6-1 in the group stage. Completing the quartet is Ghana, a nation England has never faced at a World Cup finals.
The Three Lions' matches will be spread across four cities in the USA and one in Canada: Dallas, Boston, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Toronto. Specific venues and kick-off times are set to be confirmed from 5pm GMT on Saturday.
Scotland Land Blockbuster Tie, France in 'Group of Death'
Scotland, returning to the World Cup stage, were handed a formidable challenge in Group C. They will face five-time champions Brazil, alongside African contenders Morocco and Haiti. This draw partially mirrors their last World Cup appearance in 1998, where they also faced Brazil in the group stage.
Meanwhile, Group I has quickly been dubbed the potential 'Group of Death'. Seeded France find themselves paired with Senegal, Erling Haaland's Norway, and the winner of a yet-to-be-decided international playoff, promising a fiercely competitive battle for qualification.
The host nation, the United States, will meet Australia, Paraguay, and a European playoff winner in their group. The draw itself was a complex and lengthy affair, reflecting the new 48-team format being used for the first time in the competition's 96-year history.
Glitzy Draw Overshadowed by Controversial Award
The sporting spectacle was punctuated by a significant political moment. FIFA awarded its inaugural 'FIFA Peace Prize' to former US President Donald Trump, cited on behalf of "the billions of people who love this game and want peace". Trump accepted, calling it one of the "great honours of my life", and delivered a tightly timed two-minute speech praising World Cup ticket sales.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino was a constant presence, moderating a segment where the leaders of the three host nations drew the balls for their own teams. The event, which lasted over two hours following a 90-minute preamble, also featured a pre-recorded skit with former England defender Rio Ferdinand acting as the draw's conductor.
With the groups now set, anticipation will build towards the kick-off in the summer of 2026, where a record number of nations will compete for football's ultimate prize.
