World Cup 2026, June 18: Today’s Matches and Predictions
Updated 17 June 2026.
World Cup 2026 on June 18 is round two for Groups A and B, four games that could decide who tops each group with a match still to play. South Africa and Czechia face a near-must-win, while Canada chase a first-ever World Cup victory at home in Vancouver. Here is the full slate, who to watch, and our predictions. All times Eastern.
| Match | Group | Kick-off (ET) | Our prediction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Czechia v South Africa | A | 12pm | Czechia 2-0 |
| Switzerland v Bosnia | B | 3pm | Switzerland 2-0 |
| Canada v Qatar | B | 6pm | Canada 2-1 |
| Mexico v South Korea | A | 9pm | Mexico 1-1 South Korea |
Czechia vs South Africa, the loser is almost out
Both lost their openers, so this is close to a knockout match in everything but name. South Africa are missing two starters suspended after red cards against Mexico, a blow that should tell against a Czechia side unlucky to lose to South Korea. We expect Czechia to win 2-0. Full breakdown in our Czechia vs South Africa preview.
Switzerland vs Bosnia
All four Group B sides are level on a single point after round one, and Switzerland will want to make amends for a 94th-minute own goal that cost them victory over Qatar. Bosnia held co-hosts Canada but may lack the firepower to do it twice. We lean Switzerland 2-0. See the Switzerland vs Bosnia preview.
Canada vs Qatar
Canada have never won a World Cup match, and a home crowd in Vancouver gives them their best chance yet to end that wait against a Qatar side still buoyed by their late equaliser against Switzerland. Our call is 2-1 to Canada. More in our Canada vs Qatar preview.
Mexico vs South Korea, the day’s headline act
Both co-hosts Mexico and South Korea won their openers and could secure a Round of 16 place with victory here. Neither side has a great incentive to gamble before the final round, so we predict a cagey 1-1. See the Mexico vs South Korea preview.
Follow it all live
Keep our live scores, standings and fixtures pages open through the day, and read the format in our complete World Cup 2026 guide. We will publish full match reports after each final whistle.
Frequently asked questions
What World Cup 2026 matches are on June 18?
Four: Czechia v South Africa (12pm ET), Switzerland v Bosnia (3pm ET), Canada v Qatar (6pm ET) and Mexico v South Korea (9pm ET), completing round two for Groups A and B.
What is the biggest game on June 18?
Mexico vs South Korea, a clash between two unbeaten co-host and Asian sides that could decide who tops Group A with a match to spare.
Sources: ESPN fixtures.
