The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to feature a series of high-profile group stage clashes, including a rematch between England and Croatia. As nations prepare for the tournament, The Globe and Mail will host a live Q&A on June 9 to discuss the tournament's sporting and political implications.

The return of Norway and the Haaland factor

Norway is returning to the World Cup stage for the first time since 1998, marking a significant milestone for the nation. The source highlights that the squad will rely heavily on Erling Haaland, the prolific striker for Manchester City, to challenge the 2022 runners-up, France. This matchup between France and Norway is expected to be a high-scoring affair, particularly as France fields talents like Kylian Mbappé and emerging talent Rayan Cherki.

The presence of such singular, world-class talents like Haaland reflects a broader trend in modern football where individual superstars drive massive global viewership. For Norway, this isn't just a game; it is a generational opportunity to prove they belong among the elite after nearly three decades of absence.

A rematch of the 2018 England-Croatia semifinal

England and Croatia are scheduled for a blockbuster encounter that serves as a direct rematch of their 2018 semifinal clash. According to the report, Croatia's veteran Luka Modrić will face off against a star-studded English lineup featuring Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka. This match is framed as a strategic battle between Modrić's legendary midfield control and the youthful energy of the English squad .

For England, the match represents a chance to avenge a previous defeat and assert their dominance on the world stage. The tension of this rematch is heightened by the contrasting styles of the two teams: Croatia's proven grit versus England's attacking depth.

Brazil's five titles versus Morocco's defensive discipline

The group stage will also feature a clash between the five-time champions, Brazil, and a rising powerhouse in Morocco. The source notes that Morocco stunned the footballing world in 2022 by reaching the semifinals, and they will look to use their disciplined defense to counter Brazil's traditional flair. This matchup pits one of the most successful histories in sports against a team that has recently disrupted the established hierarchy.

Similarly, Spain will face an underdog narrative against Uruguay, led by the attacking talent of Lamine Yamal. These matchups underscore the unpredictable nature of the tournament, where historic giants like Brazil and Spain must contend with teams that have rapidly ascended the global rankings.

Cristiano Ronaldo's potential final group stage appearance

Portugal's legendary 39-year-old striker Cristiano Ronaldo may face his final World Cup group stage match during a clash against Colombia. The report mentions that Colombia, which is returning to the tournament after missing the 2022 edition, will feature Luis Díaz, currently playing for Bayern Munich, as their primary offensive threat.

The global attention surrounding Ronaldo's age and his potential exit from the world stage adds a layer of emotional weight to the Portugal-Colombia fixture . Every movement on the pitch for the veteran legend becomes a headline in itself as the tournament approaches.

What the June 9 Globe and Mail Q&A will address

The logistical and political complexities of the 2026 tournament will be a central focus of an upcoming interactive session. The Globe and Mail plans to host a live Q&A on Tuesday, June 9, at 1 p.m. eT to dive into the nuances of the event.. The session aims to provide clarity on several unverified or debated topics, including the specific impact of new tournament rules and the competitive prospects for the host nation, Canada.

While the sporting matchups are well-defined, several specific details remain unaddressed in current reporting. The source leaves open questions regarding the exact political tensions involved in the co-hosting arrangement between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, as well as how the new rules will specifically alter the flow of play.