Philadelphia is set to become a World Cup hotspot, hosting five group‑stage games and a Round of 16 match on July 4, 2026. The schedule, released by FIFA officials on Dec. 6, 2025, details the teams that will compete in the city’s iconic venues.
Match Schedule
The five group‑stage fixtures are slated for the following dates:
- Sunday, June 14 – Ivory Coast vs. Ecuador
- Friday, June 19 – Brazil vs. Haiti
- Monday, June 22 – France vs. winner of the Inter‑Confederation Play‑off Path 2
- Thursday, June 25 – Curaçao vs. Ivory Coast
- Saturday, June 27 – Croatia vs. Ghana
The Round of 16 match will take place on Saturday, July 4, featuring the winner of Group 74 versus the winner of Group 77.
Behind the Draw
The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw, held on Dec. 5, 2025, finalized the 12 groups for the tournament. Philadelphia’s group assignments were revealed the following day, giving the city a clear picture of the international teams that will pass through its streets.
City Leadership Reacts
\”This match schedule is exciting, competitive, and wonderfully reflective of the diversity of Philadelphia,\” said Meg Kane, Host City Executive/CEO of Philadelphia Soccer 2026. \”To welcome elite teams such as Brazil, France, and Croatia as well as hosting a matchup between a first‑time qualifier in Curaçao and Côte d’Ivoire who returns to the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 12 years, shows the incredible range of fans that will follow this tournament. Now, the work begins to help prepare Philadelphia for the arrival of these fans in June and to connect with these national federations to ensure an exceptional fan experience for all who come.\”
What It Means for Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s status as a host city brings a surge of international attention and economic activity. The matches will draw fans from around the world, creating opportunities for local businesses, hospitality providers, and cultural organizations to showcase the city’s vibrant character. City officials are already coordinating with national federations to plan logistics, security, and fan engagement initiatives that will honor the diverse heritage of the teams and their supporters.
Key Takeaways
- Philadelphia will host five group‑stage matches and a Round of 16 game on July 4, 2026.
- The lineup includes high‑profile teams such as Brazil, France, and Croatia, as well as first‑time qualifier Curaçao and Côte d’Ivoire’s return after 12 years.
- City leadership, led by Meg Kane, is preparing to deliver an exceptional fan experience while leveraging the event for economic and cultural benefits.
Philadelphia’s preparation for the 2026 World Cup is well underway, and the city’s residents and visitors alike can look forward to a month of thrilling football, international camaraderie, and the unmistakable spirit of the “City of Brotherly Love.”
