jordan pulse -
Football fans around the world are preparing to follow the 23rd edition of the FIFA World Cup, which kicks off tomorrow, Thursday, in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, featuring 48 teams for the first time in the tournament's history.
The World Cup matches will take place from June 11 to July 19 in an exceptional edition that sees the implementation of a new tournament system with an increased number of teams and matches.
The tournament features 48 teams divided into 12 groups, with 4 teams per group. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Round of 32, alongside the 8 best third-placed teams.
Following the group stage, the knockout rounds will begin on June 28, starting with the Round of 32, followed by the Round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and concluding with the final match on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, USA.
Fans' interest is not limited to the matches alone, as football enthusiasts eagerly await the opening ceremony. The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) announced that this year's opening will be held across three separate celebrations in the three host countries.
The first opening ceremony will take place at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City before the match between Mexico and South Africa, while other celebrations will be organized before the opening matches in the United States and Canada.
The ceremony is expected to feature performances by a number of global stars, led by Colombian singer Shakira and Nigerian singer Burna Boy.
As for the broadcasting channels, the opening ceremony will be broadcast via the "beIN Sports" network, the exclusive rights holder for the World Cup in the Middle East and North Africa region. It will also be available on the official digital platforms of FIFA, including its social media accounts and its official YouTube channel.
Rum News Agency