And so, the World Cup begins

Football’s ultimate prize takes centre stage across North America as the FIFA World Cup 2026 bursts into action tonight.

The much-awaited quadrennial tournament opens with a touch of nostalgia as co-hosts Mexico take on South Africa at the iconic Azteca Stadium at 1:00 am Friday (Bangladesh time), a captivating repeat of the 2010 curtain-raiser.

Playing in front of a passionate home crowd, Mexico will hope to recreate the magic of past hosting campaigns, having famously reached the quarterfinals in both 1970 and 1986.

The opening-day double-header concludes with South Korea facing Czechia at the Estadio Guadalajara at 8:00 am.

This expanded 48-team tournament features 104 matches across 39 days in the United States, Mexico and Canada. For fans in Bangladesh, following the action will require true dedication.

The vast geography of the host nations means kick-off times will be notoriously gruelling in this part of the world, with matches stretching from midnight well into the early hours.

Adding another layer of intrigue, the unforgiving North American summer heat and humidity are expected to have a major influence, particularly during the group stage. Warm-up fixtures have already offered a glimpse of those challenges, with Spain held by Iraq and France suffering a surprise defeat to Ivory Coast.

Yet a lack of sleep is unlikely to dampen enthusiasm in Bangladesh, where World Cup fever has long transcended geography. Once again, the country will be sharply divided into its traditional camps of Argentina and Brazil supporters.

Defending champions Argentina face the notoriously difficult task of retaining their title, a feat untouched since 1962 when Brazil achieved it. However, the tournament’s location favours the Lionel Messi-led side in their quest to stitch a fourth star on their shirts, as South American teams historically dominate World Cups held in the Americas.

Brazil loyalists also have reasons for optimism of a record-extending sixth title. Under Carlo Ancelotti, Selecao arrive with renewed belief and an attack packed with star power. The setting may also stir fond memories, with the tournament returning to the United States -- the site of Brazil’s memorable triumph in 1994.

Beyond the South American giants, Europe arrive with an imposing collection of contenders.

Spain have emerged as arguably the favourites to lift the trophy for a second time. Their hopes rest heavily on the brilliance of 18-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal, who has already established himself among the game’s elite talents.

Two-time champions and last edition’s finalists France are close behind. Led by captain Kylian Mbappe, Les Bleus possess one of the deepest and most dangerous attacking units in the tournament, giving manager Didier Deschamps enviable options.

England, meanwhile, travel to North America carrying perhaps greater expectations than ever before. Manager Thomas Tuchel has inherited a wealth of creative talent, while star striker Harry Kane remains the focal point of a side desperate to end a 60-year wait for major silverware.

Portugal also command serious attention. Cristiano Ronaldo joins Messi and Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa in making a historic sixth World Cup appearance. Around him is a squad rich in quality, particularly in midfield, where Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva provide both creativity and control.

Four-time champions Germany and three-time runners-up the Netherlands complete the group of traditional heavyweights. Although still in transition, Julian Nagelsmann’s side will believe they have the talent to reach the latter stages and challenge for honours. Meanwhile, history shows the Dutch can never be counted out from making a lasting impact.

The host nations themselves enter the tournament buoyed by recent progress. Mexico appear well-equipped to navigate their group and potentially mount a deep run. The United States face a sterner immediate challenge in a highly competitive section packed with physical and tactically disciplined opponents. Canada, meanwhile, have a realistic opportunity to progress beyond the group stage.

As always, though, the World Cup’s enduring appeal extends beyond the favourites, residing in the stories surrounding the underdogs and newcomers.

A surging Norway, with marksman Erling Haaland in their ranks, pose a real threat, alongside an ensemble of dangerous dark horses like Colombia, Ecuador, Senegal, Morocco and Japan -- teams capable of causing seismic shockwaves.

On the other hand, debutants in Cape Verde, Curacao, Uzbekistan, and Jordan can always dream of causing upsets.

In a tournament of this unprecedented scale, the stage is set for an epic, unpredictable, and entirely unmissable spectacle.