The 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage continues on Wednesday with four matches scheduled across North America, including a highly anticipated clash between England and Croatia.
While many teams have already started their campaigns, several nations are only now making their tournament debut due to the expanded 48-team format. By the end of Wednesday’s action, every team at the World Cup will have played at least one match.
England face Croatia in a repeat of the memorable 2018 World Cup semi-final, while Portugal begin their tournament against the Democratic Republic of Congo. Elsewhere, World Cup newcomers Uzbekistan take on Colombia, and Ghana meet Panama in an important Group L encounter.
Portugal Begin Campaign Against DR Congo
Portugal open their World Cup journey against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Houston.
The Portuguese squad enters the tournament with high expectations and plenty of talent throughout the team. However, there are still questions about Cristiano Ronaldo’s role at the age of 41 as Portugal look to challenge for their first World Cup title.
The Democratic Republic of Congo are returning to the World Cup for the first time since 1974, when the nation competed as Zaire. Despite challenges back home, the team has attacking players capable of causing problems on the counterattack.
Player to Watch: Vitinha (Portugal)
The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder is expected to play a key role in controlling possession and dictating Portugal’s style of play.
Kick-off: 1 p.m. ET
England and Croatia Renew World Cup Rivalry
One of the most anticipated matches of the day will see England face Croatia in Dallas.
England arrive at the tournament with a strong squad, although manager Thomas Tuchel’s decision to leave out players such as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Phil Foden, and Cole Palmer has generated discussion.
Croatia, meanwhile, continue to rely on a core group of experienced players led by Luka Modric. The Croatians famously defeated England in the 2018 World Cup semi-final and have built a reputation for making deep runs in major tournaments.
Player to Watch: Elliot Anderson (England)
The Nottingham Forest midfielder could be a key figure in England’s battle for control in midfield against the experienced Croatian lineup.
Kick-off: 4 p.m. ET
Ghana Face Panama in Important Group L Match
Ghana and Panama meet in Toronto in a match that could have major implications for Group L.
Ghana recently appointed Carlos Queiroz in an effort to improve defensive stability after a difficult period. Panama, meanwhile, have continued to develop under head coach Thomas Christiansen and are viewed as a well-organized side capable of competing against strong opponents.
Player to Watch: Antoine Semenyo (Ghana)
The Manchester City forward is expected to be Ghana’s main attacking threat as they look to begin the tournament with a positive result.
Kick-off: 7 p.m. ET
Uzbekistan Make World Cup Debut Against Colombia
The final match of the day will see Uzbekistan make their World Cup debut against Colombia at Mexico City’s iconic stadium.
Coached by World Cup winner Fabio Cannavaro, Uzbekistan impressed during qualification and built their success on a strong defensive foundation. The White Wolves kept seven clean sheets in 10 matches during the final phase of qualifying.
Colombia return to the World Cup after missing the 2022 tournament and will believe they can make a strong run in the competition.
Player to Watch: Luis Diaz (Colombia)
The Bayern Munich winger enters the tournament after scoring 26 goals at club level last season and is expected to be Colombia’s biggest attacking threat.
Kick-off: 10 p.m. ET
World Cup Matches Today
- Portugal vs Democratic Republic of Congo — 1 p.m. ET
- England vs Croatia — 4 p.m. ET
- Ghana vs Panama — 7 p.m. ET
- Uzbekistan vs Colombia — 10 p.m. ET
Wednesday’s schedule features several intriguing storylines, but all eyes will be on England and Croatia as they renew one of the World Cup’s most memorable recent rivalries.
