{"opening_date":"June 11, 2026","closing_date":"July 19, 2026","host_countries":["United States","Canada","Mexico"],"format":"Expanded to 48 teams, with 16 groups of 3 teams each. The top two from each group advance to a knockout stage starting with a Round of 32.","key_events":["Opening match and ceremony at a venue in the United States (specific stadium to be confirmed)","Group stage matches across all three host nations","Knockout rounds including Round of 32, Round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and final"],"notes":"The exact schedule of matches, including specific dates for each round, will be released by FIFA closer to the tournament. The final is scheduled for July 19, 2026, at a venue in the United States (likely MetLife Stadium in New Jersey)."}