The 23rd edition of the FIFA World Cup begins today, hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This year’s tournament marks a historic expansion to 48 teams, resulting in 104 matches played over 38 days – making it the longest World Cup ever held. The opening match on June 11th features Mexico against an as-yet-unnamed opponent. This is a significant moment for international football, showcasing increased global participation. The tournament is scheduled to conclude on July 19th. Organizers anticipate record-breaking attendance and viewership throughout the competition. The expanded format aims to provide more opportunities for nations to compete on the world stage.