By Our Correspondent

National News – Football fans across the globe are counting down to the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as top stars including Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Vinicius Junior, Harry Kane and Lamine Yamal prepare to light up the tournament across the United States, Mexico and Canada.

The competition, which begins in three weeks, will feature the first-ever 48-team FIFA World Cup.

France captain Mbappe heads into the tournament under pressure after a difficult season with Real Madrid despite maintaining an impressive goalscoring form.

The 27-year-old forward is chasing history as he aims to break the World Cup scoring record currently held by Miroslav Klose.

Norway’s Haaland is set for his first major international competition after helping his country qualify for the World Cup for the first time in 28 years.

The Manchester City striker scored 16 goals during qualification and remains central to Norway’s hopes in a difficult group featuring France and Senegal.

Brazil will rely heavily on Vinicius Junior as coach Carlo Ancelotti seeks to guide the South Americans to a sixth World Cup title.

The winger hopes to strengthen his Ballon d’Or ambitions with standout performances on football’s biggest stage.

England captain Kane arrives in strong form after an excellent season with Bayern Munich, while Spain’s teenage sensation Yamal faces a race against time to recover from a hamstring injury before the tournament begins.

With concerns over fitness, form and expectations, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises drama, excitement and unforgettable football moments as the world’s biggest stars prepare for battle.