The summer of 2026 will enter the history of football. From June 11 to July 19, three countries — the United States, Canada, and Mexico — will host the most extensive World Cup in the tournament's history [citation:3][citation:7]. For the first time, 48 national teams will play, matches will be held on the territory of three countries, and the total number of matches will reach 104 [citation:1][citation:8]. North America is holding its breath in anticipation. The world is preparing for a football marathon that will last almost a month and a half and bring us a new champion. 48 teams: a new era of world football The main sensation of this World Cup is its scale. FIFA has expanded the tournament from 32 to 48 national teams [citation:4][citation:8]. The decision was made several years ago, but it is now that we will see it work in practice for the first time. The logic is simple: give more countries a chance to compete for the main trophy. The idea is controversial, but the fact remains — we will see 12 groups instead of the usual eight in the group stage [citation:4][citation:8]. Two of the best teams from each group will advance to the knockout stage. In addition, eight of the twelve teams that finished third will also qualify for the next round [citation:4][citation:8]. The system is complicated, but it guarantees that the fight for survival will continue until the last minutes even for those who seemed to have lost everything. In the end, 32 teams will meet in the 1/16 finals. To reach the final, teams will now need to win eight matches instead of the previous seven [citation:4]. Players will face a serious test of endurance. Three hosts: from north to south For the first time, the World Cup is being hosted by three countries. Matches will be held in 16 cities: 11 in the United States, three in Mexico, and two in Canada [citation:1][citation:5][citation:9]. Such a spread of geographical and climatic zones creates unique conditions. Some will play at sea ... Read more