World Cup 2026 expands squads to 52 players amid group-stage action

World Cup 2026 52‑player squads group-stage matches FIFA roster rule North American venues

The 2026 FIFA World Cup introduced a new roster rule that permits the entire 26‑player squad to be on the field, effectively creating a 52‑player lineup for each match. This change is described as a symbol of modern "squad inflation" and allows coaches greater flexibility during games.

On June 26, group‑stage matches for groups G, H and I were played across North America. In Boston, Norway faced France; in Toronto, Senegal met Iraq. Houston hosted Cape Verde versus Saudi Arabia, while Guadalajara featured Uruguay against Spain. Vancouver saw New Zealand play Belgium, and Seattle staged Egypt against Iran. The matches highlighted favourites such as twice‑champion France and a strong Spanish side leading its group.

Sources

WM-Entscheidungen heute – in diesen Gruppen wird es spannend [www.fehmarn24.de]

25 days ago

WM-Entscheidungen heute – in diesen Gruppen wird es spannend [www.op-online.de]

25 days ago

52 Mann auf dem Platz: Diese WM-Änderung steht symbolisch für die Kader-Inflation der Neuzeit [www.tz.de]

27 days ago