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World Cup Favorites Warm Up for Global Showdown
5 Jun
Summary
- France and Spain, World Cup favorites, play key warmup matches.
- Mexico, a co-host, faces Serbia in their final pre-tournament game.
- The 2026 World Cup begins next week, hosted by North American nations.

Several prominent nations are participating in important World Cup warmup games today. France, a two-time champion, is tuning up for their title bid by playing Ivory Coast, who are making their first World Cup appearance since 2014.
Spain, winners in 2010, will face Iraq as the latter team prepares to end a 40-year absence from the competition. Mexico, a co-host of the upcoming tournament, will play their final friendly against Serbia.
These matches are taking place just one week before the 2026 World Cup officially begins. The tournament, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, will commence on Thursday, June 11th, with Mexico hosting South Africa in Mexico City.