The 2026 World Cup — the biggest in history with 48 teams — finally gets under way, and for England, there is no time for a gentle start. Thomas Tuchel's side face Croatia in their Group L opener, a fixture laden with past hurt. Croatia have dished out enough pain to England over the years to prove they must not be taken lightly, and Tuchel has a huge call to make over Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers in his starting XI. The Three Lions begin their long road to New Jersey, where the final will be played on 19 July. For those watching at home, every match is covered on the BBC Sport website and app, with 54 games shown live on BBC — including the final — and 92 on BBC Sounds.
Across the Atlantic at Houston Stadium, Portugal begin their campaign against DR Congo in Group K. Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to lead the line in what is likely his final World Cup. Kick-off is at 6pm UK time, with live coverage on BBC One and build-up from 5:30pm. Viewers can stream via BBC iPlayer or the BBC Sport website. In the US, FOX carries the English-language broadcast while Telemundo and Peacock serve Spanish-speaking audiences. BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds provide audio commentary.
“England face Croatia in Group L while Portugal meet DR Congo as the 48-team 2026 World Cup begins.”
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez has a virtually full-strength squad, with Rafael Leao potentially returning from a red-card suspension to the left wing. Back-up defender Tomas Araujo is a minor doubt after a knock in training. DR Congo, making their first World Cup appearance since 1974, arrive with Premier League talent: West Ham's Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Newcastle striker Yoane Wissa are expected to start under coach Sebastien Desabre. The two nations have never met in a competitive or senior international fixture, so their head-to-head history begins here.
The Guardian's interactive bracketology allows fans to predict a path to victory through the group stage and knockouts. With 48 teams and matches spread across the United States, Canada and Mexico, this World Cup promises to be the most expansive yet. For England and Portugal, the first step is everything — and both face opponents with reasons to be wary.