2026 World Cup Daily: Spain and Belgium Kick Off Their Campaigns

Monday's World Cup Action Begins with Spain and Belgium

Some of the tournament's top teams start their World Cup matches on Monday, promising another day full of excitement after Sunday's thrilling games.

Germany recovered from a slow opening to dominate Curaçao 7–1, delivering the tournament's most commanding win so far. The Netherlands and Japan battled to a lively 2–2 draw. Côte d’Ivoire secured a late 1–0 victory over Ecuador, while Sweden’s efficient finishing led them to a 5–1 win against Tunisia.

Spain Opens Against Cabo Verde

Spain, considered one of the favorites to win the tournament, faces Cabo Verde in the first match of the day at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The kickoff is set for 12 p.m. ET. With a 65-place gap in FIFA rankings, Spain is expected to have an easy time against the World Cup newcomers. Luis de la Fuente’s squad will want to start strong, potentially putting on a performance even more dominant than Germany’s recent thrashing of Curaçao.

Broadcast:

• United States: FOX Network, fuboTV, Telemundo, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo, FOX One
• United Kingdom: ITV1 UK, ITVX, STV Scotland, STV Player
• Canada: TSN+, TSN1, TSN3, TSN4, RDS, RDS App
• Mexico: ViX Mexico

Belgium Meets Egypt in Seattle

Belgium will test its strength against Egypt at Lumen Field in Seattle, kicking off at 3 p.m. ET. Although Belgium’s golden generation is fading, experienced players like Thibaut Courtois and Kevin De Bruyne remain key. Manchester City’s Jérémy Doku is expected to lead the attack, while Romelu Lukaku may take a supporting role. Egypt, ranked 29th, looks to Mohamed Salah to spark their campaign and challenge the Europeans.

Broadcast:

• United States: FOX Network, fuboTV, Telemundo, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo, FOX One
• Canada: TSN+, TSN1, TSN3, TSN4, RDS, RDS App
• Mexico: ViX Mexico
• United Kingdom: BBC One, BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport Website

Saudi Arabia Takes on Uruguay

At Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Saudi Arabia faces Uruguay at 6 p.m. ET. Saudi Arabia has made headlines by investing heavily in its domestic league since 2022, but the national team remains the focus here. Uruguay, seen as a potential dark horse, enters as clear favorites, though Saudi Arabia’s determination could make for an entertaining contest.

Broadcast:

• United States: FOX Network, fuboTV, Telemundo, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo, FOX One
• Canada: TSN+, TSN1, TSN3, TSN4, RDS, CTV, RDS App
• Mexico: ViX Mexico
• United Kingdom: ITV 1, ITVX, ST Scotland, STV Player

Iran Clashes with New Zealand Late Monday

The final match of the day features Iran versus New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, starting at 9 p.m. ET (early Tuesday in the UK). Ranked 20th by FIFA, Iran aims to prove its quality despite off-field distractions, led by veteran Mehdi Taremi. New Zealand hopes this game offers their best chance to earn points, with right back Tim Payne drawing attention beyond the pitch.

Broadcast:

• United States: FOX Network, fuboTV, Telemundo, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo, Tubi, FOX One
• Canada: TSN+, TSN1, TSN3, TSN4, TSN5, RDS 2, RDS App
• Mexico: ViX Mexico
• United Kingdom: BBC One, BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport Website