SSP Diaries | 48 vs 32: A FIFA World Cup triumph

The 2026 FIFA World Cup’s expansion from 32 to 48 teams has opened with a wave of results that a match report characterizes as levelling the playing field, beginning with the tournament’s kickoff on June 11, 2026. The article argues that concerns about a lower standard of play and fitness have not materialized in the first round. It cites shock results such as Iran beating France, Ghana drawing England 0-0, and Brazil following with a 1-1 draw against Morocco. It also highlights unexpected performances, including Cabo Verde drawing 0-0 with Spain and 2-2 with Uruguay, plus draws involving Saudi Arabia. The piece notes the involvement of FIFA’s format across its 23rd cycle and raises the role of politics after the USA refused entry for a Somali referee.