On Tuesday, Dr. K.T. Mahi, Chairman of the Telangana Football Association, announced that the association has obtained approval to host the FIFA World Cup qualifiers match between India and Kuwait on June 6 this year in Hyderabad.
Dr. Mahi and TFA Secretary, Mr. G.P. Palguna, held constructive talks with Telangana’s Chief Minister, Mr. Revanth Reddy, a former footballer. “The Chief Minister’s enthusiastic support has paved the way for this momentous occasion,” remarked Dr. Mahi. Palguna also appealed for financial aid to State Sports Associations, receiving a positive reception. Following discussions involving Dr. K.T. Mahi, Mr. G.P. Palguna, Mr. Shahnawaz Qasim (IPS), OSD, and Mr. Ajith Reddy, the State Government confirmed its commitment.
Dr. Mahi extended thanks to All India Football Federation President Kalyan Chaubey for bestowing the TFA with this special opportunity. He emphasized the significance of the World Cup qualifier, marking a historic moment as Telangana readies to host its inaugural FIFA World Cup Qualifiers match. “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all individuals involved in bringing this monumental event to fruition. The collective support and cooperation from various stakeholders have been pivotal in achieving this milestone,” remarked Dr. Mahi.
The forthcoming World Cup qualifier carries significant weight for India, presently holding the third position in the standings. Despite a recent loss to Qatar, India retains an opportunity to advance to the third round of this esteemed tournament by securing one of the top two positions in the qualifiers.
While securing third or fourth place would exclude them from the FIFA process, it wouldn’t diminish their aspirations in the Asian context. Instead, they would progress to the third round of qualifying for the tournament, where additional qualification spots will be up for grabs.
Prior to their match against Kuwait in Hyderabad, India is scheduled to play Afghanistan twice, with the latter of these two matches set to occur in Guwahati on March 26th.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Match Schedule and Host Cities Revealed
The FIFA World Cup 2026 match schedule has been revealed, unveiling an extensive lineup of 104 games to be contested by 48 teams across 16 host cities spanning three nations—the United States, Canada, and Mexico—in what marks the largest-ever edition of this global spectacle.
This year’s tournament will feature an increase in the number of games compared to previous editions, with 48 teams vying for glory. Notably, the bronze-medal match will take place at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
The US Men’s National Team commences its World Cup campaign on June 12 in Los Angeles, aspiring to progress to the later stages of the competition. Following their group stage fixtures, they will play their final group match in Seattle on June 19 before returning to Los Angeles for their last group stage match on June 25.
Reports indicate that the 2026 World Cup will be hosted across various cities in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
The anticipation for the FIFA World Cup 2026 has reached new heights with the announcement of host cities and match schedules across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the cities and the number of games slated for each venue:
Mexico City – Five Games
The tournament kicks off in Mexico City on June 11, with Estadio Azteca hosting three group stage matches, followed by one each in the round of 32 and round of 16.
Guadalajara – Four Games
Estadio Akron will witness four group stage matches, including the second game on the opening day.
United States
Los Angeles – Eight Games
SoFi Stadium, home to the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers, will host the US’s opening group stage match and four more group stage games, along with two round of 32 games and a quarterfinal.
Dallas – Nine Games
AT&T Stadium, famously known as Jerry World, takes the lead with the highest number of matches, featuring five group stage games, two in the round of 32, one in the round of 16, and a semifinal.
New York/New Jersey – Eight Games
MetLife Stadium will host the final, in addition to five group stage matches, one in the round of 32, and one in the round of 16.
Miami – Seven Games
Four group stage matches, a round of 32, a quarterfinal, and the third-place game will take place at Messi’s new home.
Seattle – Six Games
Lumen Field, home of the MLS Cup Champion Sounders, will witness four group stage matches, a round of 32, and a round of 16, including one Team USA game.
Canada
Toronto – Six Games
Toronto will host the Canadian opener, along with four more group stage matches and one round of 32 game.
Vancouver – Seven Games
British Columbia will host one more game than Toronto, with five group stage matches, a round of 32, and a round of 16.
Other cities like Atlanta, Boston, Houston, Kansas City, Philadelphia, and San Francisco/Bay Area will also play their part in the grand spectacle, adding to the excitement with their share of matches across the tournament stages. With a total of 104 games spread over these dynamic host cities, the FIFA World Cup 2026 promises to be an unforgettable experience for football enthusiasts worldwide.
