World Cup 2026 Schedule, Results and Broadcast Channels for MENA Viewers

The Biggest World Cup Is Underway Across Three Nations

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is here — and it is the largest edition in football history. With 48 teams, 104 matches, and games spread across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, this tournament marks a new era for the sport. For fans across the Middle East and North Africa, the action is live right now, with the opening match having kicked off on June 11 and the final set for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Unprecedented Arab Presence: Eight Teams Compete

Eight Arab nations are participating in this World Cup — the largest Arab representation ever. Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Morocco, Jordan, Iraq, Tunisia, and Algeria all qualified, giving billions of Arabic-speaking fans a reason to follow every matchday. The last World Cup in Qatar 2022 saw Argentina lift the trophy after a dramatic penalty shootout against France. Now, these eight Arab teams aim to make history on North American soil.

Key Facts: Format, Cities, and Tournament Structure

  • 48 teams divided into 12 groups of 4 — the first expansion since 1998
  • 104 total matches running from June 11 to July 19, 2026
  • Round of 32 introduced for the first time — top 2 from each group plus 8 best third-place teams advance
  • 16 host cities across the USA, Canada, and Mexico including New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, Miami, Toronto, and Guadalajara
  • Arab teams in Groups 2, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 — Qatar faces Switzerland on June 13 while Algeria meets Argentina on June 16
  • Opening match: Mexico vs South Africa on June 11 at Estadio Azteca, Mexico City

Match Schedule — Opening Week (Damascus Time)

The opening week is packed with marquee fixtures. On Saturday June 13, Qatari fans can watch their national team take on Switzerland at San Francisco's Bay Area Stadium at 10:00 PM. That same night, Brazil faces Morocco at New York/New Jersey Stadium at 1:00 AM Sunday, while Australia meets Turkey in Vancouver at 7:00 AM Sunday.

Monday June 15 features Egypt against Belgium at Seattle Stadium at 10:00 PM, and Saudi Arabia versus Uruguay in Miami at 1:00 AM Tuesday. On Tuesday June 16, Algeria faces Argentina in Kansas City at 4:00 AM Wednesday — a match that will captivate millions of Arab viewers. Jordan opens its campaign against Austria in San Francisco earlier that day at 7:00 AM. Finally, Tunisia meets Sweden in Monterrey on Sunday June 14 at 5:00 AM Monday.

Broadcast Channels: How to Watch in MENA

beIN Sports holds exclusive broadcasting rights for the 2026 World Cup across the Middle East and North Africa. The network is airing all 104 matches through its encrypted beIN SPORTS MAX channels, with select matches — including the opening ceremony and select group games — available on free-to-air channels. The al-Qass network also carries some matches in coordination with beIN Sports. For digital streaming, fans can use the TOD platform and FIFA+'s official app for live coverage.

Libya Connection: Why Libyan Fans Should Follow

While Libya did not qualify for the 2026 World Cup, the tournament carries deep significance for Libyan football fans. North African neighbors Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, and Algeria all qualified, creating regional pride across the Maghreb. Many Libyan players compete in leagues across these four nations, and the success of Arab teams on the global stage inspires the next generation of Libyan talent. The Libyan Football Federation has been investing in youth development programs, with officials hoping that a future Libyan squad could qualify for the 2030 World Cup — which may be co-hosted by Morocco.

What to Expect in the Coming Weeks

With the group stage in full swing and the knockout Round of 32 approaching, the next three weeks promise dramatic football. Can an Arab team reach the quarterfinals for the first time since Morocco's historic run in 2022? Will defending champions Argentina and star-studded France defend their legacy? Keep checking LibyaPress for daily updates, live results, and expert analysis throughout the tournament.

— LibyaPress / Sports Desk