What the Schedule Holds for North Texas

Here’s a breakdown of what’s coming to Dallas Stadium in 2026:

• Group Stage Matches (5): including matchups such as Netherlands national football team vs. Japan national football team, England national football team vs. Croatia national football team, and Argentina national football team vs. Austria national football team.
• Knockout Matches: Two Round of 32 games, one Round of 16, and a semi-final, making Dallas Stadium the only U.S. venue with a semi-final slot at the 2026 tournament.

This places North Texas as one of the most central hubs of the entire World Cup — drawing global teams, players, and fans to the region.

Local Reaction: “Elation” and Optimism

North Texas FWC Organizing Committee co-chair Dan Hunt — also president of FC Dallas — described the moment as “elation.” He said the outcome “was way beyond my wildest dreams.”

Hunt highlighted not only the high-profile matches but also the potential return of local talent: Petar Musa, a striker for FC Dallas, could feature if his national team qualifies.

Officials also expect a major economic and cultural boost. As one of only a few U.S. sites hosting multiple knockout-stage matches (including a semi-final) and some of the world’s most popular teams, North Texas stands to draw international media, fans, and global attention — an opportunity many believe will redefine the region’s sporting legacy.

What Comes Next

With the match schedule finalized, attention turns to logistics: infrastructure, transportation, accommodations, and local planning to manage the influx of teams and supporters. Organizers are already consulting with universities, local stadiums, and training sites as they anticipate global teams arriving for pre-tournament preparations.