Will 2026 Be the Host Countries Best FIFA World Cup Yet?
There is nothing quite like a home crowd. The 2026 FIFA World Cup has already given fans excitement, thrills, and, in some cases, disappointment. However, for the host countries, the teams have delivered only wins for local fans, who have rejoiced at the unique opportunity to watch their national soccer teams triumph at home. Certainly, Mexico, Canada, and the U.S. have been having a notable run, breaking records and advancing to the next stage. Home-crowd magic may have something to do with these teams’ performances, but whatever the reason, it seems it might be their best World Cup yet.
Mexico Moves Forward
Mexicans are no strangers to hosting the FIFA World Cup; in fact, the country has hosted the event three times, more than any other nation. Mexico won every game in the group stage and, just a few days ago, celebrated a 2-0 win over Ecuador in the Round of 32. This victory did not come without controversy, as Mexican fans intentionally made noise outside the Ecuadorian players’ hotel to keep them awake the night before the game. The co-host’s next game will be against England this upcoming Monday, July 6th. The English decided to keep their hotel’s location secret but were nevertheless welcomed by a crowd of booing fans. Such passionate aficionados leave El Tri no choice but to win against whoever crosses their path on national soil. Let us not forget that Mexico’s best World Cup finishes happened on home soil in 1970 and 1986, when the team reached the Quarterfinals.
USA Ready to Become a Soccer Nation
It seems like soccer might become more popular than football this season. The USMNT has astounded its fans with a nearly perfect run in this FIFA World Cup, only being surpassed by Türkiye, which defeated an undermanned Team USA 3-2. The opening game for the Americans was already historic, with a 4- 1 win against Paraguay, the largest margin of victory in a World Cup game for Team USA since 1930. Crowds have gathered to watch the games in every host city, and even soccer chants have been created, not without scrutiny from fans of other countries. The cultural power of soccer has clearly grown in the U.S. thanks to this World Cup and the outstanding team playing in this edition. The U.S. hosted the World Cup in 1994 but was eliminated in the Round of 16 against Brazil. After a 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, the USMNT will face Belgium on Tuesday, July 7th.
Canada Rewriting Its Record Books
Before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Canada had never won a World Cup game or even scored a point in a World Cup Match. Now they are facing the 2026 AFCON runners-up, Morocco, in the Round of 16. Les Rouges have rewritten their history, advancing past the group stage for the first time and winning 1-0 against South Africa in the Round of 32. Canadian fans should feel incredibly proud of their national team's achievements. The players have been breaking barriers and showcasing their quality in front of a home crowd, which is the best reward possible. Morocco will be a tough rival, but if I am to expect a surprise from any team, it would be Canada.
Final Thoughts
This World Cup has been fascinating in many different regards. For the first time ever, we had three different countries hosting, three countries that are very unlike one another. The experience for the fans and the players must be dazzling, especially if you are a local. Never have we had this many teams and this many home crowds, which just makes it all the more exciting. We still have lots to go; the best is yet to come!
