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The wait is almost over ... the 2026 FIFA World Cup is about to begin! ESPN's experts are here with what you need to know at a glance about all 48 teams.

Sophia Wilson forced an own goal in the second half for the United States in a scrappy 1-0 win over Brazil in Fortaleza on Tuesday night in which the home side finished with nine players and was shown a total of eight red cards.

After their last meeting with Paraguay ended in a near-brawl, the USMNT is steeling itself for another fiery match in Friday's World Cup opener.

The Texas Attorney General's Office said it has opened an investigation into FIFA's World Cup ticket sale practices following complaints alleging fans were misled about seat locations for matches to be played in Dallas and Houston.

Real Madrid are set to confirm the return of José Mourinho on Wednesday after the coach's previous club, Benfica, announced his departure.

Real Madrid have entered into a transfer battle with Barcelona after announcing they have had a €150 million ($173m) bid turned down for Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez.

A United States official said Tuesday night that Omar Artan, the Somalian referee who was denied entry into the country ahead of the World Cup, was refused admission due to "association with suspected members of terror organizations."

Argentine legend Messi, who is working his way back from muscle fatigue ahead of the start of the FIFA World Cup, came on in the 70th minute and scored from the penalty spot right after in his team's 3-0 win over Iceland.

Manchester United will face AC Milan alongside Wrexham, Atlético and PSG on their preseason tour this summer.

Come Friday, the USMNT's World Cup journey will begin. With the tournament just days away, ESPN answers the biggest questions facing the co-hosts.