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Who is Playing in the World Cup Today?

Who is Playing in the World Cup Today? – The 2026 FIFA World Cup is underway across the United States, Canada, and Mexico in the expanded 48-team format. On Tuesday, June 16, 2026, four group-stage matches are scheduled, giving U.S. fans an exciting lineup of European, African, and South American talent. If you’re asking “who is playing in the World Cup today,” here’s the complete, up-to-date schedule with Eastern Time kickoffs, venues, TV channels, and streaming options tailored for American viewers.

World Cup 2026 Matches Today: June 16 Schedule (ET)

All times listed in Eastern Time (ET). The tournament remains in the group stage (First Stage).

Time (ET) Match Group Venue TV / Stream (USA)
3:00 p.m. France vs Senegal Group I MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ FOX, FOX One
6:00 p.m. Iraq vs Norway Group I Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA FOX, FOX One
9:00 p.m. Argentina vs Algeria Group J GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, MO FOX, FOX One
12:00 a.m. (June 17) Austria vs Jordan Group J Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CA FS1, FOX One

Source: Official FIFA schedule and FOX Sports listings as of June 16, 2026.

France vs Senegal – Group I (3:00 p.m. ET at MetLife Stadium)

The day opens with a high-profile clash at the iconic MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. France brings its world-class depth and attacking talent against a resilient Senegal side known for organized defending and dangerous counter-attacks. This Group I opener promises pace, physicality, and moments of individual brilliance.

Venue: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey

Iraq vs Norway – Group I (6:00 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium)

Norway returns to the World Cup stage with high expectations, led by elite attackers, while Iraq competes with grit and tactical discipline after a long absence. The match at Gillette Stadium near Boston offers fans in the Northeast a chance to see European physicality meet determined opposition in a key Group I fixture.

Venue: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts

Argentina vs Algeria – Group J (9:00 p.m. ET at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium)

Defending champions Argentina kick off their campaign against a strong Algerian team in Kansas City. Expect passionate support for the South Americans and a competitive test from Algeria’s experienced squad. This evening matchup at Arrowhead Stadium should deliver drama under the lights.

Venue: GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri

Austria vs Jordan – Group J (12:00 a.m. ET / June 17 at Levi’s Stadium)

The night concludes on the West Coast as Austria faces Jordan at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. Both teams will fight for early points in Group J, with the late kickoff giving West Coast fans a prime-time viewing opportunity. Jordan’s organized style often produces tight, tactical battles.

Venue: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California

How to Watch the World Cup Today in the USA?

FOX Sports holds exclusive English-language broadcast rights for all 104 matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

  • TV: FOX (most matches, including today’s earlier games) and FS1 (late match). Check your local listings or cable/satellite provider.
  • Streaming: FOX One app (subscription required) carries every match live and on-demand in 4K. The FOX Sports app also provides access depending on your provider.
  • Free options: Over-the-air antenna for FOX network broadcasts where available.
  • Spanish language: Telemundo and Peacock typically provide full coverage.

For the most accurate channel confirmation, visit the official FOX Sports World Cup hub before each match.

Key Storylines to Follow on June 16

  • France’s quest to reassert dominance in Group I after strong recent performances.
  • Norway’s star power and whether they can convert qualification momentum into World Cup results.
  • Argentina’s title defense — how the reigning champions handle their opening Group J test.
  • Algeria and Senegal representing African football’s continued rise on the global stage.
  • The expanded 48-team format creating more opportunities for underdog stories across all groups.

Spotlight on Today’s U.S. Host Venues

Today’s matches highlight the geographic diversity of the U.S. co-hosting role:

  • MetLife Stadium (New Jersey) — One of the premier soccer venues in North America and host of the 2026 final.
  • Gillette Stadium (Massachusetts) — A football cathedral bringing World Cup energy to New England.
  • GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium (Missouri) — Famous for its electric atmosphere and now hosting its first World Cup matches.
  • Levi’s Stadium (California) — Modern West Coast facility delivering late-night drama for Pacific Time viewers.

Essential Resources for World Cup Fans (Trusted & Current Sources)

Practical Tips for Watching the World Cup in the USA

  • Download the FOX One or FOX Sports app in advance for seamless streaming and notifications.
  • Check local sports bars and restaurants — many will have watch parties, especially near host cities.
  • Plan around time zones: East Coast fans get prime-time action; West Coast viewers can catch the late match comfortably.
  • Follow official FIFA and FOX social channels for real-time updates, highlights, and fan features.
  • Use the official FIFA app or website for live scores and group standings as matches conclude.

Whether you’re watching from home, a sports bar, or planning a trip to one of the host cities, June 16 delivers a fantastic slate of World Cup action. Bookmark the trusted sources above and enjoy the matches!