Just a few months before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup – to be played in Mexico, the United States and Canada – the tournament organizers have already defined the drawing of lots for the draw, which will be held next Friday, December 5, 2025 in Washington, D.C.
As the host country, Mexico is in Draw 1 and will open the tournament as the top seed in Group A at the legendary Azteca Stadium on June 11, 2026.
Mexico to meet its inaugural opponent
This means that the opponent with which El Tri will debut in the 2026 World Cup will come from Pot 3.
This compiles qualifying teams with lower rankings or from confederations other than CONCACAF/UEFA.
So far, the 11 confirmed possible opponents in Draw 3 are:
Norway
Egypt
Algeria
Scotland
Paraguay
Tunisia
Ivory Coast
Uzbekistan
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
South Africa
These teams represent a mix of confederations:
Europe, Africa, Asia and South America.
It should be noted that a CONMEBOL team such as Panama is ruled out as a direct rival of Mexico in the opening of the 2026 World Cup, given that it would share a confederation.
The draw will be very exciting
Mexico appears in Pot 1
QuéOnnda.com
For the millions of Hispanics living in the United States – many with Mexican roots – this sweepstakes represents a mix of excitement, nostalgia and an opportunity to reunite (virtually or in person).
The fact that El Tri’s debut in the 2026 World Cup will be played at the Azteca Stadium is not only a symbol:
It involves mass tourism, high media interest and a festive atmosphere that can resonate with Latino communities in the US.
In addition, by already knowing the possible opponents, fans can start to imagine scenarios, plan trips or view match sites now.
And although there are still six places to be defined via the playoffs, the confirmation of these 11 teams offers an increasingly concrete panorama.
Key next steps
Official drawing on December 5, 2025 in Washington, D.C.
Official release of groups and complete schedules on December 6.
Logistical and security preparations for Mexico as the main venue for the inauguration.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
