2026 World Cup Daily: Spain and Belgium Kick Off Their Campaigns
Some of the tournament’s strongest teams start their World Cup matches on Monday. The fifth day promises to keep up the excitement seen in Sunday’s four intense games.
Germany recovered from a slow opening to dominate Curaçao 7–1, marking the tournament's most decisive 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 dismantled Tunisia 5–1 with clinical finishing.
Spain vs. Cabo Verde
Spain faces debutants Cabo Verde in Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, kicking off at 12 p.m. ET. As one of the favorites to win, Spain is expected to control the game easily. Cabo Verde sits 65 places below Spain in FIFA rankings, making this a mismatch on paper. Many anticipate a dominant display similar to Germany’s recent thrashing of Curaçao.
TV Coverage: FOX Network, fuboTV, Telemundo (US); ITV1 UK, ITVX (UK); TSN+ (Canada); ViX Mexico
Belgium vs. Egypt
Later in the day, Belgium meets Egypt at Lumen Field in Seattle, with kickoff at 3 p.m. ET. Although Belgium’s golden generation is fading, they still have stars like Thibaut Courtois, Kevin De Bruyne, and rising talent Jérémy Doku. Romelu Lukaku might come off the bench this tournament.
Egypt relies heavily on Mohamed Salah to create opportunities and trouble Belgium’s defense. Ranked 29th globally, Egypt could prove a tough opponent despite being considered underdogs.
TV Coverage: FOX Network, fuboTV, Telemundo (US); BBC One (UK); TSN+ (Canada); ViX Mexico
Saudi Arabia vs. Uruguay
At Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Saudi Arabia faces Uruguay at 6 p.m. ET. Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in its domestic league post-2022, but now it is up to the national players to show progress. Uruguay, often seen as a dark horse, are favorites to win this matchup.
This match could be entertaining as Saudi Arabia aims to make a statement on the world stage.
TV Coverage: FOX Network, fuboTV, Telemundo (US); ITV 1 (UK); TSN+ (Canada); ViX Mexico
Iran vs. New Zealand
Closing Monday’s fixtures, Iran plays New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, kicking off at 9 p.m. ET. Iran is ranked 20th by FIFA and will look to prove their quality despite off-field distractions. Veteran forward Mehdi Taremi leads their attack.
New Zealand knows this could be their best chance to earn points in the group. All eyes might be on right back Tim Payne, who has grown popular among fans worldwide.
TV Coverage: FOX Network, fuboTV, Telemundo, Tubi (US); BBC One (UK); TSN+ (Canada); ViX Mexico
