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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
David Brandt

World Cup what to know: Mexico kicks off a supersized, 48-team tournament

APTOPIX Mexico WCup Soccer - (Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

After years of preparation, a supersized World Cup has finally arrived.

This year's tournament — which is hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico — was expanded to 48 teams that will play in 16 stadiums in a record 104 matches over the 39-day tournament.

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