how many matches in 2026 fifa world cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has 104 matches in total. The tournament format includes 72 group-stage matches and 32 knockout matches.

Match breakdown

• Group stage: 72 matches.

• Knockout stage: 32 matches.

• Total: 104 matches.

Quick note

That total is higher than the 64-match format used in earlier World Cups because the 2026 edition expanded to 48 teams.

Would you like the full stage-by-stage schedule too?