After an action-packed first round of group matches, the second round of the 2026 World Cup group stage kicks off. Here are the top five must-watch fixtures from June 18 to June 23.

Guadalajara Stadium – Thursday, 7pm (01:00 GMT Friday). Group A sees Mexico face South Korea in a clash of friends turned rivals. Both teams won their opening games and aim for top spot. The atmosphere promises to be electric, with fans previously celebrating together.

Houston Stadium – Saturday June 20, noon (17:00 GMT). In Group F, the Netherlands, held to a 2-2 draw by Japan, face Sweden, who thrashed Tunisia 5-1. Sweden's dynamic duo Isak and Gyokeres test a shaky Dutch defense, putting Ronald Koeman's tactics under scrutiny.

Toronto Stadium – Saturday June 20, 4pm (20:00 GMT). Germany, fresh from a 7-1 demolition of Curacao, take on a youthful Ivory Coast side. Both teams have three points, but Germany leads on goal difference. The Elephants, led by Amad Diallo, pose a real challenge.

Atlanta Stadium – Sunday June 21, noon (16:00 GMT). Spain, held to a shock 0-0 draw by debutants Cape Verde, face Saudi Arabia. Group H is wide open with all teams on one point. Spain sits third, while Saudi Arabia is second after drawing with Uruguay. Pressure mounts on Lamine Yamal and co.

New York New Jersey Stadium – Monday June 22, 8pm (00:00 GMT Tuesday). Group I leaders Norway, with Erling Haaland scoring twice on debut, face Senegal, who lost 3-1 to France. Senegal coach Pape Thiaw calls for defensive solidity and sharper attack against Haaland, who scored 16 in qualifying.

Source: www.aljazeera.com