The excitement is building across the globe as the FIFA World Cup 2026 draw is happening live! Today, Friday, December 5, 2025, teams from around the world are discovering their fate for the historic tournament co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. For fans in the UK and beyond, all eyes are on the destinies of England and Scotland. The ceremony, broadcast from Washington D.C., is the official starting whistle for the biggest World Cup ever.

The Draw Unfolds: Live from Washington D.C.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., is a prestigious venue for today’s draw. The event officially began at 12:00 PM Eastern Time, which translates to 5:00 PM (17:00 GMT) for audiences in the UK and Ireland. As the balls are drawn, the path to potential glory in 2026 becomes clearer for the qualified nations. Consequently, this event marks a major milestone on the road to the tournament.

England Learns Group L Fate

A Familiar Foe and a New Challenge

England now knows two of its group stage opponents. The Three Lions were drawn into Group L and will face a challenging lineup. They will once again meet Croatia, a familiar rival from recent major tournaments. In addition, they are set to play against Panama. This draw immediately sets up intriguing storylines and tactical questions for the English side as they prepare for the summer of 2026. For more official details on the draw process, you can visit the Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Draw Procedure.

Scotland Faces Giants in Group C

Brazil and Morocco Await the Tartan Army

Meanwhile, Scotland has been handed a monumental task in Group C. The Tartan Army will have to contend with footballing royalty, as they have been drawn alongside five-time world champions Brazil. Their group also includes Morocco, a formidable side that impressed many in the last tournament. This tough draw undoubtedly presents a significant challenge, but also a thrilling opportunity for Scotland to test itself against the world’s best.

What’s New for World Cup 2026?

The 2026 tournament is not just another World Cup; it’s a historic expansion of the beautiful game. For the first time, the competition will feature 48 teams, an increase from the previous 32-team format. This change promises more matches and more global participation than ever before.

Key features of the 2026 tournament include:

• Three Host Nations: The United States, Canada, and Mexico will share hosting duties.
• Expanded Field: 48 teams will compete for the ultimate prize.
• More to Come: While 42 spots are filled, the final six teams will be decided through intense playoff matches in March 2026.

Conclusion

In summary, the World Cup 2026 draw has delivered captivating matchups and set the stage for an epic tournament. England faces a mix of familiar and new challenges in Group L with Croatia and Panama. Scotland, on the other hand, prepares for a colossal test against Brazil and Morocco in Group C. As the final teams book their places through the playoffs, the world eagerly anticipates this expanded, 48-team festival of football across North America. The road to 2026 has truly begun.