BREAKING: FIFA has officially released the highly anticipated schedule for the 2026 Men’s World Cup, confirming an exciting path for the USA as soccer fans prepare for the tournament. The schedule, announced today, features 104 matches across 11 cities in the United States, with additional matches in Mexico and Canada.
The tournament kicks off on June 11, 2026, with the USA playing its first match on June 12 in Los Angeles against Paraguay. The final match is set for July 19, 2026, at 3 p.m. EDT in MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, strategically scheduled for prime-time viewing in Europe.
FIFA has structured the tournament to include 78 games in the U.S., where the quarterfinals and beyond will take place. Key U.S. cities hosting matches include Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, and Miami. All eyes are on the USA’s group stage matchups, which include games against Australia and the UEFA playoff winner.
The USA‘s group stage schedule is as follows:
- June 12, 2026: USA vs. Paraguay – Los Angeles at 6 p.m. local time
- June 19, 2026: USA vs. Australia – Seattle at 7 p.m. local time
- June 25, 2026: USA vs. UEFA playoff C – Los Angeles at 7 p.m. local time
FIFA Chief Tournament Officer Manolo Zubiria emphasized the logistical challenges of organizing the largest World Cup yet, spanning across three countries and multiple time zones. “We’ve tried to strike the right balance looking at the preparation and recovery that the teams have to do,” Zubiria stated.
The excitement builds as the tournament approaches, with the group stage concluding on June 27, 2026. Following this, the knockout stages will unfold, leading to the finals that promise to be a spectacle for fans worldwide.
As the USA gears up for its matches, the nation stands united in support of its team, bolstered by the thrill of hosting soccer’s biggest event. Stay tuned for updates on the remaining teams and playoff outcomes that will shape the final matchups, with the playoff games scheduled for March 2026.
The countdown has begun, and fans are urged to mark their calendars for this historic event. Will your team make it to the final? Share your excitement and follow the developments as the World Cup approaches!
