Guardian Writers Share First Impressions from Week One of the 2026 World Cup

After the opening week of the 2026 World Cup, Guardian correspondents report a tournament of contrasts — logistical friction alongside genuine warmth from locals across New York, Kansas City, and Dallas. The football has delivered, with DR Congo drawing against Portugal and England beating Croatia among the highlights. In the United States, interest in the sport has visibly grown, spilling into bars, schools, and everyday conversation.