Venues, Stadiums, And Match Details for The Biggest Soccer Showcase

The roar of the crowd, the electric tension, the global spectacle – nothing quite compares to the FIFA World Cup. As the 2026 edition approaches, soccer fans worldwide are already buzzing about the sheer scale of what's to come. This isn't just another tournament; it's a historic event spanning three nations, a true celebration of the beautiful game. Understanding the Sedes, Estadios y Detalles de los Partidos (Venues, Stadiums, and Match Details) is your key to navigating this monumental showcase and maximizing your experience.
This World Cup promises to redefine what's possible, expanding its footprint, its teams, and its matches. Forget everything you thought you knew about the World Cup format; 2026 is bringing unprecedented changes, and knowing where the action unfolds is paramount.

At a Glance: What Makes World Cup 2026 Different

Three Nations, One Tournament: Hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States – a first in World Cup history.
16 Host Cities: A sprawling geographical footprint offering diverse fan experiences.
Expanded Field: From 32 to 48 teams, meaning more nations get to live the dream.
Record Matches: A staggering 104 matches, up from 64 in Qatar 2022, making it the longest World Cup ever.
New Group Stage Format: A revised structure where even some third-place teams can advance, keeping more teams in contention longer.
Iconic Kick-off: The tournament begins on June 11 at the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
Grand Finale: The World Cup Final will be held on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey.
USA Dominance in Knockouts: All matches from the quarter-finals onward will be played exclusively on US soil.

The Grand Scale: A World Cup Without Precedent

Prepare yourself for a tournament like no other. The FIFA World Cup 2026 isn't just bigger; it's fundamentally transformed. On June 11, the opening whistle will mark the start of an event that stretches across three North American countries—Mexico, Canada, and the United States—encompassing an incredible 16 host cities. This expansion from 32 to 48 teams isn't merely about numbers; it translates into a staggering 104 matches, an increase of 40 games from the 2022 edition. This means more opportunities for drama, more underdog stories, and more football to soak in, making it the longest World Cup in history.
The group stage itself introduces a new dynamic, allowing eight of the 12 best third-place teams to advance. This structural shift is designed to keep more teams engaged and competitive deep into the tournament, promising an extended period of high-stakes football. Whether you're tracking your favorite national team or simply marveling at the global talent, this format ensures sustained excitement.

The Host Nations: Who Gets What?

The hosting duties are shared, but not equally, reflecting the logistical scale required for such an immense tournament.

Mexico will proudly host 13 matches, spreading its share across three iconic cities.
Canada will also host 13 matches, showcasing its growing football passion in two major hubs.
The United States will concentrate the vast majority of the tournament's action, taking on 78 matches. This includes every single match from the quarter-finals onward, solidifying its role as the central stage for the tournament's thrilling conclusion.
This distribution means that early round matches will be a truly continental affair, while the business end of the competition will see the focus shift exclusively to American venues.

Spotlight on the Icons: Key Stadiums and Their Stories

From historic cathedrals of football to ultra-modern marvels, the 16 host stadiums are characters in their own right, each with a unique history and an electric atmosphere. Let's dive into the details of where the magic will happen, exploring their profiles and the matches they're set to host.

Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico

A Living Legend Kicks Off the Show.
The Estadio Azteca isn't just a stadium; it's a monument in football history. As the only venue ever to host matches from three World Cups (1970, 1986, 2026), it's where legends like Pelé and Maradona hoisted the coveted trophy. After multiple remodels, its capacity now stands at 85,523, ready to once again welcome the world. The initial whistle of the 2026 World Cup will blow here on June 11, marking the Mexican National Team's first game.

Capacity: 85,523
Built: 1966
Investment: ~$260 million pesos (at the time)
Description: The only stadium to host matches from three World Cups (1970, 1986, 2026), where Pelé and Maradona were crowned.
Matches in Mexico City:
Mexico vs South Africa (June 11, 2026)
Uzbekistan vs Colombia (June 17, 2026)
Mexico vs Czech Republic/Ireland/Denmark/North Macedonia (June 24, 2026)
Round of 32 (1st Group A vs 3rd Group C, E, F, H – June 30, 2026)
Round of 16 (Winner match 79 vs Winner match 80 – July 5, 2026)

MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey, USA

The Stage for the Grand Finale.
Sharing its home with the NFL's Giants and Jets, MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is a colossal venue designed for grand events. With a capacity of 87,157 and a build cost of approximately $1.6 billion, it has already hosted a Super Bowl and the Copa América Centenario final. In 2026, it adds the biggest prize to its resume: the FIFA World Cup Final on July 19.

Capacity: 87,157
Opened: 2010
Cost: ~$1,600 million dollars
Description: Shares locality between Giants and Jets. Will host the World Cup Final.
Matches in New York/New Jersey:
Brazil vs Morocco (June 13 | Group C)
France vs Senegal (June 16 | Group I)
Norway vs Senegal (June 22 | Group I)
Match to be defined (June 25 | Group to be defined)
Ecuador vs Germany (June 27 | Group E)
R32 (June 30 | Match 77)
Round of 16 (July 5 | Match 91)
Final (July 19 | Match 104)

AT&T Stadium, Dallas, USA

A Cathedral of American Sports.
In Arlington, Texas, the AT&T Stadium is an architectural marvel known for its gargantuan central screen and retractable roof. Home to the Dallas Cowboys, this $1.3 billion venue can pack in 92,967 fans, making it one of the largest covered stadiums globally. It's a seasoned host for major events, from Super Bowls to NCAA Final Fours, and will see significant World Cup action, including a pivotal semifinal.

Capacity: 92,967
Inaugurated: 2009
Cost: ~$1,300 million dollars
Description: One of the largest covered venues, home of the Cowboys, known for its gigantic central screen.
Matches in Dallas:
Netherlands vs Japan (June 14 | Group F)
England vs Croatia (June 17 | Group L)
Argentina vs Austria (June 22 | Group J)
Japan vs Albania/Poland/Sweden/Ukraine (June 25 | Group F)
Jordan vs Argentina (June 27 | Group J)
R32 (June 30 | Match 78)
R32 (July 3 | Match 88)
Round of 16 (July 6 | Match 93)
Semifinals (July 14 | Match 101)

Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, USA

Innovate and Elevate.
Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium, opened in 2017 with a price tag of $1.6 billion, is famed for its unique petal-shaped retractable roof. It's not just beautiful; it's a record-setter, consistently drawing massive crowds for Atlanta United MLS matches and hosting a Super Bowl. Its modern amenities and central location make it a prime choice for high-stakes games, including a semifinal.

Capacity: 75,000
Opened: 2017
Cost: ~$1,600 million dollars
Description: Stands out for its petal-shaped retractable roof.
Matches in Atlanta:
Spain vs Cape Verde (June 15 | Group H)
Czech Republic/Denmark/North Macedonia/Republic of Ireland vs South Africa (June 18 | Group A)
Spain vs Saudi Arabia (June 21 | Group H)
Morocco vs Haiti (June 24 | Group C)
Congo/Jamaica/New Caledonia vs Uzbekistan (June 27 | Group K)
R32 (July 1 | Match 80)
Round of 16 (July 7)
Semifinals (July 15)

SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, USA

The Billion-Dollar Marvel.
The most expensive stadium ever built, SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, is valued at over $5 billion. Inaugurated in 2020, it’s home to the Rams and Chargers and has already hosted Super Bowl LVI. Its cutting-edge design and immersive experience set a new standard for sports venues, making it a fitting host for significant World Cup matches, including quarterfinals.

Capacity: 70,240
Inaugurated: 2020
Valued: Over $5,000 million dollars
Description: The most expensive stadium ever built.
Matches in Los Angeles (SoFi Stadium):
United States vs Paraguay (June 12)
Iran vs New Zealand (June 15)
Switzerland vs Italy/Northern Ireland/Wales/Bosnia-Herzegovina (June 18)
Belgium vs Iran (June 21)
United States vs Turkey/Romania/Slovakia/Kosovo (June 25)
R32: 2A vs 2B (June 28)
R32: 1H vs 2J (July 2)
Quarter-finals (July 10)

Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, USA

Sunshine, Soccer, and the Bronze Medal.
Comprehensively renovated in the last decade, Miami Gardens' Hard Rock Stadium has a rich history of hosting Super Bowls and Copa América matches. With a capacity of 67,518, it brings the vibrant energy of South Florida to the World Cup stage. Beyond group stage and Round of 32 games, Miami will host a quarter-final and the tournament's third-place match, offering a final opportunity for medal glory.

Capacity: 67,518
Built: 1987 (extensively renovated)
Description: Hosted Super Bowls, university finals, Copa América. Adapting again for the World Cup.
Matches in Miami:
Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay (June 15 | Group H)
Uruguay vs Cape Verde (June 21 | Group H)
Brazil vs Scotland (June 24 | Group C)
Colombia vs Portugal (June 27 | Group K)
R32 (July 3 | Match 86)
Quarter-finals (July 11 | Match 99)
Third place (July 18 | Match 103)

Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, USA

The Loudest Roar.
Kansas City's Arrowhead Stadium, home to the Chiefs, is legendary for its deafening atmosphere, holding records for crowd noise. With a capacity of 76,640 and inaugurated in 1972, it's a beloved venue for national team matches and international events. It will bring its formidable energy to several World Cup games, including a crucial quarter-final.

Capacity: 76,640
Inaugurated: 1972
Description: Famous for its deafening atmosphere, home of the Chiefs.
Matches in Kansas City:
Argentina vs Algeria (June 16 | Group J)
Ecuador vs Curacao (June 20 | Group E)
Tunisia vs Netherlands (June 25 | Group F)
R32 (July 3 | Match 87)
Quarter-finals (July 11 | Match 100)

Gillette Stadium, Boston, USA

New England's Sporting Heart.
In Foxborough, Massachusetts, Gillette Stadium serves as the home for the New England Patriots and Revolution. Since its inauguration in 2002, this 70,000-capacity venue has become a regular host for international soccer, including Gold Cup matches and high-profile friendlies. It will host group stage games, a Round of 32 clash, and a thrilling quarter-final.

Capacity: 70,000
Inaugurated: 2002
Cost: ~$325 million dollars
Description: Home to the New England Patriots and Revolution. Regular venue for international matches.
Matches in Boston:
Haiti vs Scotland (June 13 | Group C)
Iraq/Bolivia/Suriname vs Norway (June 16 | Group I)
Scotland vs Morocco (June 19 | Group C)
England vs Ghana (June 23 | Group L)
Norway vs France (June 26 | Group I)
R32 (June 29 | Match 74)
Quarter-finals (July 9 | Match 97)

Lumen Field, Seattle, USA

Acoustics and Atmosphere in the Pacific Northwest.
Seattle's Lumen Field, inaugurated in 2002, is renowned for its incredible acoustics, which amplify the cheers of its 69,000-strong crowd. Home to the Seahawks and Sounders, it has been a consistent venue for MLS finals, Gold Cup, and World Cup qualifying matches. It will host several group stage matches, a Round of 32 game, and a Round of 16 knockout.

Capacity: 69,000
Inaugurated: 2002
Cost: ~$430 million dollars
Description: Famous for its acoustics. Home of Seahawks and Sounders.
Matches in Seattle:
Belgium vs Egypt (June 15, 2026)
United States vs Australia (June 19, 2026)
Italy/Northern Ireland/Wales/Bosnia vs Qatar (June 24, 2026)
Egypt vs Iran (June 26, 2026)
Round of 32 (Match 82 – July 1, 2026)
Round of 16 (Match 94 – July 6, 2026)

Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, USA

The Cradle of Liberty Meets the World's Game.
Home to the Philadelphia Eagles, Lincoln Financial Field, opened in 2003, seats 69,328 fans. With a history of hosting national team matches and Gold Cup games, this stadium blends American football heritage with international soccer passion. Philadelphia will host a robust schedule, including group stage matches and a key Round of 16 fixture.

Capacity: 69,328
Opened: 2003
Investment: ~$512 million dollars
Description: Houses the Eagles. Hosted national team matches, Gold Cup, and university events.
Matches in Philadelphia:
Ivory Coast vs Ecuador (Sunday, June 14, 2026)
Brazil vs Haiti (Friday, June 19, 2026)
France vs Iraq/Bolivia/Suriname (Monday, June 22, 2026)
Curacao vs Ivory Coast (Thursday, June 25, 2026)
Croatia vs Ghana (Saturday, June 27, 2026)
Round of 16 (Match 89 – Saturday, July 4, 2026)

NRG Stadium, Houston, USA

Texas-Sized Action.
Houston's NRG Stadium was the first NFL stadium with a retractable roof, inaugurated in 2002. With a capacity of 72,220, it has been a versatile host for Super Bowls, WrestleMania, and numerous international events. Its climate-controlled environment will provide a comfortable setting for several group stage matches and a Round of 32 game.

Capacity: 72,220
Inaugurated: 2002
Investment: ~$350 million dollars
Description: The first NFL stadium with a retractable roof.
Matches in Houston:
Germany vs Curacao (June 14 | Group E)
Portugal vs Jamaica/DR Congo/New Caledonia (June 17 | Group K)
Netherlands vs Ukraine/Sweden/Poland/Albania (June 20 | Group F)
Portugal vs Uzbekistan (June 23 | Group K)
Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia (June 26 | Group H)
R32 (June 29)

Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco Bay Area, USA

Silicon Valley's Sustainable Pitch.
Located in Santa Clara, California, Levi’s Stadium is home to the San Francisco 49ers. Opened in 2014, this $1.3 billion venue is celebrated for its sustainable design and advanced technology. It has already hosted a Super Bowl and Copa América Centenario matches, proving its capability to deliver world-class events. It will feature group stage and Round of 32 games.

Capacity: 70,909
Opened: 2014
Cost: ~$1,300 million dollars
Description: Houses the San Francisco 49ers. Recognized for its sustainable design and advanced technology.
Matches in San Francisco:
Qatar vs Switzerland (June 13 | Group B)
Austria vs Jordan (June 16 | Group J)
Turkey/Romania/Slovakia/Kosovo vs Paraguay (June 19 | Group D)
Jordan vs Algeria (June 22 | Group J)
Paraguay vs Australia (June 25 | Group D)
R32 (July 1 | Match 81)

BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

Canada's Western Gateway to the World Cup.
Vancouver's BC Place, with its distinctive retractable roof, has been a cornerstone of Canadian sports since 1983. Following a major renovation between 2009-2011, this stadium, which hosted events for the 2010 Winter Olympics, stands ready to welcome the world. Its 54,500 capacity will be filled for group stage and Round of 32 matches, and a Round of 16 clash.

Capacity: 54,500
Inaugurated: 1983 (Renovated: 2009-2011)
Investment: ~$563 million Canadian dollars
Description: Stands out for its retractable roof. Hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics.
Matches in Vancouver:
Australia vs Kosovo/Romania/Slovakia/Turkey (June 13, 2026)
Canada vs Qatar (June 18, 2026)
New Zealand vs Egypt (June 21, 2026)
Switzerland vs Canada (June 24, 2026)
New Zealand vs Belgium (June 26, 2026)
Round of 32 (Match 85 – July 2, 2026)
Round of 16 (Match 96 – July 7, 2026)

Estadio BBVA, Monterrey, Mexico

The Jewel of Nuevo León.
Opened in 2015, Estadio BBVA in Guadalupe, Nuevo León, is a modern architectural gem and home to Liga MX side Rayados. With an estimated cost of $200 million and a capacity of 53,460, it has quickly become a premier venue for football in Mexico. Monterrey will host several compelling group stage encounters and a Round of 32 match.

Capacity: 53,460
Opened: 2015
Estimated Cost: ~$200 million dollars
Description: Home to Rayados. Recognized for its architectural profile.
Matches in Monterrey:
Ukraine/Sweden/Poland/Albania vs Tunisia (June 14, 2026)
Tunisia vs Japan (June 20, 2026)
South Africa vs Republic of Korea (June 24, 2026)
Round of 32 (Match 75 – June 29, 2026)

Estadio Akron, Guadalajara, Mexico

Chivas' Modern Fortress.
Inaugurated in 2010, Estadio Akron in Zapopan, Jalisco, is the modern home of Chivas and a symbol of Mexican football's evolution. With a capacity of 48,071 and a cost of $200 million, it successfully hosted the 2011 Pan American Games. Its blend of modern design and local identity will welcome fans for several exciting group stage matches.

Capacity: 48,071
Inaugurated: 2010
Investment: ~$200 million dollars
Description: Home to Chivas. Hosted the 2011 Pan American Games, combines modern design with local identity.
Matches in Guadalajara:
Republic of Korea vs Czech Republic/Denmark/North Macedonia/Republic of Ireland (June 11, 2026)
Mexico vs Republic of Korea (June 18, 2026)
Colombia vs Congo/Jamaica/New Caledonia (June 23, 2026)
Uruguay vs Spain (June 26, 2026)

BMO Field, Toronto, Canada

The Heart of Canadian Soccer.
BMO Field in Toronto, Ontario, opened in 2007, is home to Toronto FC and a national team venue. Representing the growth of soccer in Canada, its capacity of 45,736 will be temporarily expanded for the World Cup. It's set to host a series of compelling group stage matches, showcasing Toronto's diverse and passionate football culture.

Capacity: 45,736 (to be expanded)
Opened: 2007
Cost: ~$62 million Canadian dollars
Description: Home of Toronto FC and national team venue, represents the growth of soccer in Canada.
Matches in Toronto:
Canada vs European Playoff Winner A (Bosnia and Herzegovina/Italy/Northern Ireland/Wales) (June 12, 2026)
Ghana vs Panama (June 17, 2026)
Germany vs Ivory Coast (June 20, 2026)
Panama vs Croatia (June 23, 2026)
Senegal vs FIFA Playoff Winner 2 (Bolivia/Iraq/Suriname) (June 26, 2026)

Navigating the Schedule: Planning Your World Cup Experience

With 104 matches spread across three countries, strategizing your attendance is key. The tournament opens with group stage games, where 48 teams will battle across 12 groups of four. Remember, the new format means even some third-place teams have a shot at advancing, so every point will matter. This makes the early rounds incredibly dynamic and unpredictable.
As the tournament progresses, the stakes rise with the knockout rounds. The Round of 32 introduces the first direct elimination phase, followed by the Round of 16, Quarter-finals, and Semifinals. Keep a close eye on the calendar for specific venues hosting these critical matches, especially if you plan to witness the intense atmosphere of a do-or-die game. If you're particularly interested in nurturing football talent, you might also follow younger players who get their start in events like South American U-20 matches as they could one day grace these very World Cup stages.

Understanding the Match Codes

You'll notice matches are sometimes referred to by a number (e.g., "Match 78"). This numerical sequencing simply indicates the overall match number in the tournament calendar, which can be useful for tracking specific fixtures as the tournament unfolds.

Beyond the Pitch: What to Expect in Each Host City

Each of the 16 host cities offers a unique cultural backdrop to the football spectacle.

Mexico City, Monterrey, Guadalajara: Immerse yourself in rich history, vibrant cuisine, and unparalleled passion for football.
Vancouver, Toronto: Experience Canadian hospitality, diverse populations, and stunning urban landscapes.
US Cities: From the glitz of Los Angeles and New York to the Southern charm of Atlanta and Miami, the historic streets of Philadelphia and Boston, and the innovative spirit of Seattle and the Bay Area, each offers a distinct flavor of America. Consider the regional climate, too, as some cities like Houston and Dallas will be significantly warmer in June and July.
Planning your travel to coincide with matches in these cities means not just watching football, but also experiencing the local culture, food, and hospitality that makes each destination unique.

Making Your Trip a Reality: Practical Advice for Fans

Attending a World Cup is an unforgettable experience, but it requires careful planning.

Tickets: Stay informed about official FIFA ticket sales phases. These typically involve pre-sales, random draws, and last-minute sales. Be wary of unofficial vendors.
Travel Logistics: Given the vast distances between cities, especially across three countries, factor in significant travel time and costs. Flights between host cities in the US can be long, and crossing borders into Mexico or Canada will require appropriate documentation and customs checks.
Accommodation: Book accommodations well in advance. Prices will surge as the tournament approaches, particularly in cities hosting knockout rounds.
Local Transport: Research public transportation options in each host city. Many stadiums are well-served, but traffic can be substantial on match days.
Budgeting: Remember to account for tickets, flights, hotels, food, local transport, and souvenirs. It's a premium experience with a matching price tag.

Common Questions About the 2026 World Cup

Q: How many teams will participate in World Cup 2026?
A: A record 48 teams will participate, up from 32 in previous editions.
Q: Where will the opening match take place?
A: The opening match will be held on June 11, 2026, at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Mexico.
Q: Which stadium will host the World Cup Final?
A: The Final will be played on July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey, USA.
Q: Will all three host countries host knockout stage matches?
A: Mexico and Canada will host group stage, Round of 32, and Round of 16 matches. All matches from the quarter-finals onwards will be exclusively held in the United States.
Q: What is the new group stage format?
A: The 48 teams will be divided into 12 groups of four. The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, will advance to the Round of 32. This format ensures more competitive matches and keeps more teams in contention for longer.

Your Journey Begins Now: Embrace the Anticipation

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is shaping up to be an extraordinary event, a testament to football's global appeal and its capacity to unite nations. With the details of the Sedes, Estadios y Detalles de los Partidos now laid out, you have a solid foundation for understanding the scale and scope of this monumental tournament. Whether you plan to follow your team across borders or simply immerse yourself in the action from afar, the anticipation is building for a World Cup that will undoubtedly etch its name into history. Start your planning, mark your calendars, and prepare for an unforgettable summer of soccer.