Every four years, the greatest sporting show lands somewhere on Earth, and this year the World Cup circles back to North America. It’s been 32 years since it last splashed down in the United States and ignited the game here. Who can forget the (in)famous Diana Ross penalty kick that started that tournament? Supreme? Not so much.
Team USA in 1994 was a pick and mix, with some unpolished gems and local heroes. They captured the imagination and wore their hearts on their Adidas sleeves. There was no shame in exiting to eventual winners Brazil.
The Class of 2026 is an altogether different prospect. This squad is a collection of well-drilled, seasoned professionals, coached by a talented Argentine: Mauricio Roberto Pochettino Trossero, aka Poch. It has every reason to dream big. Former USA team manager and German legend Jürgen Klinsmann agrees. Talking on the Men in Blazers Network earlier this year, he said, “I think the sky’s the limit. If American players believe in their ability and build a strong spirit, they can go far.”
Can they go one better than in 1930? You mean you’ve forgotten Team USA’s run to the semifinals in Uruguay at the first-ever World Cup?
This year, the tournament is bigger and better than ever: 48 teams, 104 games. It all kicks off in Mexico City on June 11, and what a soccer bonanza it’s going to be. Every team here, from Algeria to New Zealand, will want to make its nation proud.
The favorites are drawn from the usual cast: Argentina, Spain, France, England, perhaps, and maybe Brazil if they can summon up the old samba magic. Team USA, with home crowds roaring them on, will surely surf into the knockout rounds. We all get to dream. And there will be shocks. There are always shocks.
We also get to see some of the world’s biggest sporting stars — Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, Lamine Yamal, Erling Haaland — strut their stuff. And see some legends — Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo — one last time. Some hot youngsters will surely break through, too. Check out our Top 100 and see if you agree with our choices.
Finally, let’s not forget the fans. That happens too often as it is. Thousands will travel from around the world to celebrate the great game. Let’s give ’em all a warm welcome and buy ’em a beer — who knows, you might make some new friends, or at the very least end up with some great memories. Because soccer brings us all together.
2026 World Cup, Thursday, June 11, 3/2c, Fox Sports, Fox, ESPN, Peacock, Telemundo & FIFA+
TV Guide Magazine’s 2026 World Cup Preview Special Issue is available for order online now at worldcup.tvgm2026.com and for purchase on newsstands nationwide.
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