The FIFA World Cup 2026 delivered another action-packed day as Argentina defeated Jordan 3-1 in their Group J clash to secure an important victory. In the other Group J fixture, Algeria and Austria played out an entertaining 3-3 draw, with both teams sharing the points after a high-scoring contest.

The tournament has now moved into the Round of 32, where Canada progressed after edging past South Africa by a single goal in a closely fought encounter.

While the on-field action continues to excite football fans, the tournament is also drawing attention for its rising costs. The FIFA World Cup 2026 has become the most expensive World Cup for spectators, with higher ticket and accommodation prices making it increasingly difficult for many fans to attend.

Official ticket prices for the group stage were initially priced at up to $575, a significant increase from the $220 maximum for group-stage tickets at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. FIFA's introduction of a dynamic pricing model, where ticket prices rise with demand, has pushed resale prices even higher.

According to Ticketdata, a ticket price tracking website, the average lowest resale price for upcoming matches stood at around $1,600 on Friday. Tickets for the later stages of the tournament are being sold at even higher prices. Some fans reportedly spent $4,000 for four tickets, excluding travel and accommodation expenses.

The rising costs have sparked concerns that the World Cup is becoming increasingly accessible only to wealthier supporters. Many believe the growing financial barriers are changing the makeup of crowds, reducing opportunities for the traditional fan base that has long been at the heart of football culture.