An Iowan’s Ultimate Guide to the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The "soccer bug" bit me long ago. I started playing in high-school in Monticello, before continuing on at D3 Wartburg on a stellar team, of some even more amazing guys. Now I get to coach high-school and youth soccer in Cascade. Not to mention, I try and watch every Manchester United game I can in the Premier League. Simply put, I believe soccer (football for much of the world) is truly "the beautiful game," as Pele once stated.

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Even more exciting for me is that the 2026 FIFA World Cup is finally here. I wanted to do something for soccer fans across Iowa so they could easily support and follow the United States Men's National Team (USMNT). In fact, there's never been a better time to jump on the Team USA bandwagon. This year's tournament is historic for several reasons. Not only is it the largest World Cup ever, featuring 48 nations, it's also being hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. For American soccer supporters, that means the USMNT will often have home-field advantage as they try to make a deep run on the world's biggest stage.

In my honest opinion, this might be the most talented group of on field players we've ever had. In fact, it's quite odd to say that for once the weakest spot on our team might be in goal, but I have some faith that Matt Freese will do a commendable job and continue to grow though the tournament. I mean, with attacking threats from both defensive wings in Sergino Dest and Antonee "Jedi" Robinson, and the cutting edge that Christian Pulisic provides, I can honestly say I expect the USA to reach the knockout stages despite being part of what might be (based on rankings) the most competitive group in the World Cup.

The United States automatically qualified for the tournament as one of the host nations and enters Group D alongside Paraguay, Türkiye, and Australia. Led by other stars like Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams, and Folarin Balogun, Team USA hopes to build on recent international success and prove it can compete with soccer's elite nations.

Team USA Group Stage Schedule

For Iowa fans planning watch parties and summer gatherings, here are the three must-watch group stage matches:

• USA vs. Paraguay | Friday, June 12 | Kickoff: 8:00 p.m. Central Time (6:00 p.m. Pacific)
• USA vs. Australia | Friday, June 19 | Kickoff: 8:00 p.m. Central Time
• USA vs. Türkiye | Thursday, June 25 | Kickoff: 8:00 p.m. Central Time

The group stage runs through June 27th, with the top teams advancing to the knockout rounds. American viewers can watch World Cup matches on FOX and FS1, while Spanish-language broadcasts will air on Telemundo and Universo. Streaming options include FOX One, Peacock, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Fubo. Some matches may also be available through FIFA+ and select free streaming promotions.

Key Group Stage Matchups Every Soccer Fan Should Watch

Even if Team USA is your primary focus, the World Cup group stage is loaded with marquee matchups featuring some of the biggest stars in the sport. From world powers like Brazil and France to emerging contenders such as Morocco and Norway, these games will showcase the highest level of soccer on the planet, with the very best players. Again, all matches are expected to air on FOX or FS1, with Spanish-language coverage available on Telemundo and Universo. Streaming options include Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and FOX Sports apps.

Brazil vs. Morocco | Saturday, June 13 | 7:00 p.m. CT
Watch: FOX / FS1

If you only watch one non-USA group stage match, make it this one. Brazil remains one of the most talented teams in the world and is always among the tournament favorites. Morocco, meanwhile, has become one of international soccer's most exciting rising powers. Expect world-class skill, flair, and attacking soccer from start to finish.

France vs. Senegal | Tuesday, June 16 | 2:00 p.m. CT
Watch: FOX / Telemundo

France enters the World Cup with championship aspirations and one of the deepest rosters in the tournament. Will Mbappe go on another goal tear and take the top scoring spot for World Cups? There's a chance! Additionally, Senegal brings speed, athleticism, and enough talent to challenge anyone. They did just lose to the USMNT in a World Cup warm-up match (highlights above). This matchup feels more like a knockout-round game than a group-stage contest and should be one of the most competitive early matches of the tournament.

England vs. Croatia | Wednesday, June 17 | 4:00 p.m. CT
Watch: FOX / FS1

Who doesn't want to see the "Three Lions" at least once. This team is capable of lifting the World Cup if it operates to each individuals' highest standard. Besides, Harry Kane is a force in front of goal. England and Croatia have developed a compelling World Cup history over the past decade, and both nations arrive with high expectations. England boasts one of the strongest squads, while Croatia continues to prove it can compete at an elite level tactically and technically. If Croatian midfield maestro Luka Modric is in sparkling form, expect a high-quality battle between the two perennial contenders.

Norway vs. France | Friday, June 26 | 2:00 p.m. CT
Watch: FOX / Telemundo

This match could determine the winner of Group I. Norway features one of the world's most dangerous attacking players in Erling Haaland and has emerged as a legitimate dark horse. France is loaded with international stars and championship experience. If both teams enter with six points, this could be one of the best games of the entire group stage.

Uruguay vs. Spain | Friday, June 26 | 7:00 p.m. CT
Watch: FOX / FS1

Circle this one on your calendar. Spain boasts 18-year-old phenom Lamine Yamal; will this be his breakout on the world stage? Spain's possession-based style meets Uruguay's physical, aggressive approach in what could be a group-deciding showdown. Both nations have rich World Cup histories, and the contrast in styles should make for one of the most entertaining tactical matchups of the tournament.

Why Casual Fans Should Tune In

The beauty of the World Cup group stage is that every day features meaningful soccer. The nation's best players rarely share the same field outside of international tournaments. These matches offer Iowa sports fans a chance to see the very best players in the world competing for soccer's biggest prize all in our backyard. So, raise a shout for team USA; I believe that we will win!