UPDATE: The 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup schedule has just been released, revealing the matchups that soccer fans have eagerly awaited. FIFA announced today that the tournament will feature 104 matches across 16 cities in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with the U.S. hosting a staggering 78 games, including all quarterfinals and beyond.
The tournament kicks off on June 11, 2026, with the opening match in Mexico City where co-host Mexico will face South Africa. The USA will play its first match on June 12 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, taking on Paraguay at 6 p.m. local time (9 p.m. EDT). The final is set for July 19, 2026, at 3 p.m. EDT at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, timed for prime-time viewing across Europe.
“We’ve worked hard to balance travel and recovery for teams in what will be the largest World Cup to date,” said chief tournament officer Manolo Zubiria. The tournament’s unique format spans three countries, making logistics more complex than ever.
The USA’s group stage matches include a pivotal showdown against Australia on June 19 in Seattle, followed by a crucial game against the UEFA playoff winner on June 25 back in Los Angeles. The playoff matchups will determine one of the group opponents, with teams like Turkey and Romania vying for the spot.
Soccer fans can mark their calendars for the following key dates:
– **June 11, 2026**: Mexico vs. South Africa (Mexico City)
– **June 12, 2026**: USA vs. Paraguay (Los Angeles)
– **June 19, 2026**: USA vs. Australia (Seattle)
– **June 25, 2026**: USA vs. UEFA playoff winner (Los Angeles)
– **July 19, 2026**: World Cup Final (East Rutherford, New Jersey)
The full schedule includes matches in iconic U.S. cities such as Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Miami, Philadelphia, San Francisco Bay Area, and Seattle. This expansive reach aims to engage fans across North America, highlighting the growing popularity of soccer in the region.
As excitement builds, the tournament’s impact will be felt not only through thrilling matches but also in significant economic benefits for host cities. Local businesses are gearing up for an influx of visitors, with projections estimating substantial boosts in tourism and hospitality.
With the stage set for an unforgettable summer of soccer, fans are advised to stay tuned for updates on ticket sales and further details as the tournament approaches. The countdown to the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup has officially begun, and the world will be watching!
For the latest updates, keep an eye on official FIFA announcements and local news outlets. This is just the beginning of what promises to be a historic event in the world of sports.