Nail-biters, madness and heart-stopping moments; Countdown begins for worlds largest sporting event

MEXICO CITY: The world is just hours away from witnessing the grandest jamboree in world sport unfold. The 23rd edition of the footballing mega-event, the World Cup, will begin at 12.30 am on Friday, Indian time. The first match will be between Mexico, one of the host countries, and South Africa. The final will be on July 19.

The United States, Mexico, and Canada are hosting the World Cup. More teams and matches are included in the tournament this year. The current champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi; the European champions Spain led by a young boy named Lamine Yamal; Mbappe's France, which has played in the finals of the last two World Cups; Germany with its proud tradition, Brazil looking to regain its lost glory, and Portugal, mostly for Cristiano Ronaldo's swansong, will be there to offer more glitter to the tournament.

Although they may not receive the superstar status like others, England and the Netherlands are top contenders for the World Cup. Croatia, Belgium and Morocco have the potential to be dark horses. Senegal, Ghana and Egypt are the African powers. Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Iran and Iraq are the Asian hopes for the World Cup. Uzbekistan and Jordan, and the relatively young Cape Verde and Curacao, will debut in this World Cup. Trionda, produced by Adidas, will be the official football used for the tournament.

In all probability, this will be the final World Cup for Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar and Luka Modric. Messi's dream of winning the title came true four years ago in Qatar. Fans are waiting for Cristiano to lift the cup this year and end the jinx. There are also a handful of debutants, including Spanish teenage talent Lamine Yamal, who will likely walk away with the player of the tournament award.

39 days, 104 matches

48 teams are participating in the tournament held in three countries

32 teams qualified in the first round of the last World Cup

12 groups of four teams each in the preliminary round