A common view of exterior FIFA World Cup 2026 signage at Kansas Metropolis Stadium on June 08, 2026 in Kansas Metropolis, Missouri.
Jay Biggerstaff/Getty Photos
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Jay Biggerstaff/Getty Photos
The next was initially printed within the Up First publication as a part of the NPR Community’s protection of the World Cup, Soccer Version. For extra updates from Juliana all through the video games, subscribe to Up First, or take a look at the brand new World Cup tab within the NPR app.
Hello! I am Juliana Kim, a reporter on the Normal Task desk and avid World Cup fan. A lot in order that in school, I give up my summer time job to be able to watch each match within the 2018 match on TV. Every Tuesday, for the following six weeks, I will be taking on this slice of the Up First publication to speak all issues World Cup. To start out, here is some viewing recommendation: Do not skip the opening rounds — a.ok.a. the group stage — that kicks off June 11.
I will be the primary to confess, in different sports activities, I solely concentrate in direction of the tip, like in the course of the World Sequence, the Tremendous Bowl and the present NBA finals. However this summer time, 48 nationwide groups — up from 32 — will compete in probably the most inclusive group stage ever. Which means much more underdogs and a higher likelihood that just a few would possibly break via to make historical past. Whereas for others, it’s going to doubtless be the one likelihood to see them in motion.
Uzbekistan, Jordan, Cape Verde and Curacao are making their World Cup debut. In the meantime, Scotland, South Africa, Canada, and New Zealand (simply to call just a few) have by no means made it previous the group stage. The reality is simply eight nations have ever gained the World Cup in its almost 100-year historical past. (None from Africa, Asia or North America.) However in soccer, a single purpose could make all of the distinction. Typically it comes right down to the ultimate minute. And for some groups, merely making it to the Spherical of 32, which begins June 28, might be a tear-jerker.
So watch just a few video games. Root for multiple workforce. And observe alongside on our World Cup tab within the NPR App for extra protection from throughout the Community.
Video highlights
Podcast highlights
Skilled soccer within the U.S. as soon as felt like an unimaginable dream.
However one Kansas Metropolis businessman, higher generally known as the founding father of the Chiefs, was a steadfast believer.
From the failed makes an attempt at a nationwide league, via the creation of MLS and the very first U.S. soccer stadium — Lamar Hunt was there. KCUR’s A Individuals’s Historical past of Kansas Metropolis took a glance again in any respect it took to get the World Cup to Kansas Metropolis. Take a pay attention.
What to look at for this week
⚽ There are nonetheless tickets to the U.S. opening match between the U.S. and Paraguay in LA. Thus far, solely Mexico’s opening match in opposition to South Africa on Thursday appears to be bought out. Specialists agree on the explanation. In the meantime, Seattle’s providing over 1,400 free tickets for teenagers and their caregivers.
⚽ Recreation transportation may get bizarre. Value is an enormous situation. Stadium staff in LA have approved a strike forward of the primary sport; Prices related to attending to the stadium in New Jersey have led of us to discover peddle energy, and Kansas Metropolis’s launched all-new shuttle service.
⚽ It is an thrilling time for Haitian soccer followers. After a long time of rooting for soccer powerhouse Brazil, many Haitian followers have the possibility to cheer on Haiti’s nationwide workforce for the primary time in 52 years. Plus, Massachusetts’ personal Frantzdy Pierrot, who made the Haitian workforce, will get to play his first World Cup sport on the Boston Stadium on June 13.
