Brazil, Germany, Morocco and the Netherlands headline FIFA World Cup weekend action

Yes, South African football fans are still processing Bafana Bafana’s opening result. But the FIFA World Cup moves quickly, and there is plenty of football to enjoy this weekend.

The first full weekend of the tournament brings some of the world’s biggest football nations into action, including Brazil, Germany, the Netherlands and Morocco.

Whether you’re planning a football-filled weekend or simply looking for the standout fixtures, here are the matches and teams to keep an eye on as the FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage continues.

Saturday, 13 June 2026

Qatar vs Switzerland

18:00 SAST

Group B gets underway with Switzerland looking to make an early statement against Qatar at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.

Brazil vs Morocco

21:00 SAST

One of the biggest matches of the weekend sees five-time world champions Brazil take on reigning African champions Morocco at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.

With both teams tipped to make deep runs in the tournament, this could be one of the standout group-stage clashes.

Haiti vs Scotland

00:00 SAST (Sunday)

Scotland begin their campaign against Haiti at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough.

Australia vs Türkiye

03:00 SAST (Sunday)

Australia and Türkiye meet in Vancouver in a Group D encounter that could have a major impact on qualification hopes.

Sunday, 14 June 2026

Germany vs Curaçao

16:00 SAST

Germany kick off their campaign at NRG Stadium in Houston looking to make an immediate impact.

Netherlands vs Japan

19:00 SAST

The Netherlands face Japan in what many expect to be one of the most entertaining matches of the weekend.

Côte d’Ivoire vs Ecuador

22:00 SAST

African champions Côte d’Ivoire take on Ecuador in a fascinating Group E contest at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.

Sweden vs Tunisia

01:00 SAST (Monday)

The final match of the weekend sees Sweden and Tunisia battle it out in Monterrey.

Teams to watch this weekend

While several nations are in action, four teams stand out as genuine contenders and must-watch attractions.

Brazil

Brazil arrive at the tournament as one of the favourites and currently sit among the highest-ranked teams heading into the weekend.

Under coach Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil have developed greater defensive stability without sacrificing their attacking flair.

The squad features stars such as Vinícius Júnior, Raphinha and teenage sensation Endrick.

The only concern is the absence of Neymar, who is expected to miss the opening match through injury.

Morocco

Morocco remain Africa’s biggest hope and one of the tournament’s most dangerous dark horses.

The reigning African champions have consistently shown they can compete with the world’s best and will be eager to test themselves against Brazil.

Led by Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Díaz, Morocco have the quality to trouble any opponent.

Netherlands

The Dutch arrive with one of the most balanced squads in the competition.

Strong defensively and dangerous in attack, the Netherlands are viewed by many as serious title contenders.

Captain Virgil van Dijk remains the foundation of a defence that is notoriously difficult to break down.

Their clash against Japan on Sunday will provide an early indication of just how far they can go.

Germany

Germany may be rebuilding, but the four-time world champions are never a team to ignore.

A talented new generation is looking to restore Germany’s reputation on football’s biggest stage, starting with Sunday’s match against Curaçao.

A convincing opening victory would provide a significant confidence boost for the remainder of their campaign.

Three matches you should not miss

Brazil vs Morocco

Saturday, 21:00 SAST

A clash between one of football’s traditional powerhouses and Africa’s leading contender.

Netherlands vs Japan

Sunday, 19:00 SAST

A tactical battle between two technically gifted teams.

Germany vs Curaçao

Sunday, 16:00 SAST

Germany begin their quest for a fifth World Cup title.

How to watch

South Africa

Watch every FIFA World Cup match live on SuperSport via DStv or stream through the DStv Stream app.

United States

Matches are available live on FOX Sports and Telemundo, with streaming options including Peacock and Fubo.

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