The World Cup is just 31 days away and anticipation is building to a fever pitch as preparations continue in Canada, Mexico and the U.S. Here’s what to know, one month out.

Need to know: This summer, 48 teams will battle it out in the biggest tournament in men’s soccer. As a co-host, the U.S. automatically qualified in Group D, with their opening match against Paraguay on June 12. The final is July 19, but you’ll have to dig deep for the best tickets. See the teams, schedules and how to watch. [AP/Yahoo Sports]
Cue the music: Opening ceremonieswill be held in all three host nations, with performances from Katy Perry, Michael Bublé and more. Last week, Colombian icon Shakira teased her official song for the tournament, featuring the Nigerian singer Burna Boy. Listen to it. [Athlon Sports/Billboard]
The latest news: In Mexico, parents criticized a government plan to end the school year early to ease logistics, saying it would leave them scrambling to find childcare. Iran’s top soccer body said the country will “definitely” take part, but only if the joint hosts agree to its 10 conditions. [BBC News/USA Today]