Excitement is building among foreign nationals in Vancouver and Toronto as the cities prepare to welcome multiple national teams for the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup. The tournament’s full schedule, featuring 48 teams and 104 games, was revealed in Washington D.C. Canada is set to host a total of 13 games, with Vancouver hosting seven matches and Toronto hosting six.
In Vancouver, Hany Elheniedy, president of the Egyptian Canadian Cultural Society of B.C., eagerly anticipates the clash between Egypt and New Zealand at B.C. Place on June 21, 2026. This match is one of seven games, including two knockout fixtures, that Vancouver will host as part of the World Cup. Elheniedy expects a significant turnout from the local Egyptian community, especially with Liverpool star Mo Salah leading the Egyptian team.
Fans will also witness Canada’s men’s national soccer team in action at B.C. Place, playing against Qatar on June 18 and Switzerland on June 24. Vancouver will host its first game on June 13, featuring Australia against a European opponent. Additionally, New Zealand will face Belgium on June 26 in another exciting matchup.
Moving to Toronto, German-born Jasper Sauerland is thrilled about Germany’s game against Ivory Coast at BMO Field on June 20. Sauerland, who relocated to Toronto in 2021 for university, finds solace in soccer, describing it as a crucial part of the city’s culture. He looks forward to experiencing a piece of home as German fans are expected to travel to Toronto for the World Cup matches.
Despite the high ticket prices, Sauerland hopes to attend the Germany match but is content with watching it at a local pub. Toronto fans can also catch games featuring Croatia, Senegal, Ghana, and Panama during the tournament.
The anticipation is high as Vancouver and Toronto gear up to host a thrilling lineup of matches during the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, promising an unforgettable experience for soccer fans across the cities.
