The knockout rounds of the 2026 World Cup begin on Sunday with Canada vs. South Africa at 3 p.m. ET. That match will open Round of 32 play and is the only World Cup match on Sunday.
Understanding the 2026 World Cup Structure
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first edition of the tournament to feature 48 teams. According to FIFA’s official tournament documentation, the competition will consist of 104 matches.
The tournament structure includes:
- Group Stage: 12 groups of four teams each.
- Knockout Rounds: The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-place teams, will advance to a new Round of 32.
- Host Nations: Canada, Mexico, and the United States have qualified automatically as co-hosts.
Status of International Soccer Competitions
Professional sports scheduling relies on official calendars maintained by governing bodies like FIFA for international play and organizations like Major League Baseball (MLB) for domestic leagues. Fans should verify match fixtures through official league portals or FIFA’s match center.
Major international tournaments are subject to strict qualification processes.
Verifying Sports Betting Information
Sports betting promotions, such as those offered by DraftKings, are subject to specific terms and conditions, including eligibility requirements based on the user’s physical location and state-specific gaming regulations. According to DraftKings’ official terms of service, promotional offers are limited to new users in legal jurisdictions and require the successful placement of a qualifying wager.
Users interested in sports wagering should:
- Confirm the legality of online sports betting in their specific state or province.
- Review the expiration dates and "play-through" requirements for any advertised bonus bets.
- Utilize official sportsbook applications to verify current money line odds, as these fluctuate based on market movement and team news.
Key Takeaways for Sports Fans
- Tournament Accuracy: The 2026 World Cup schedule will be finalized following the conclusion of global qualifying rounds.
- Official Sources: Always check official league websites (e.g., MLB.com or FIFA.com) for confirmed match times and lineups.
- Responsible Wagering: Betting promotions carry specific risk and eligibility criteria; users are encouraged to consult official sportsbook platforms directly for verified terms.