Soccer fans in New Jersey will have a unique opportunity to witness history in the summer of 2026. MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford has been selected as one of the host venues for the FIFA World Cup. During the tournament, the stadium will be known as “New York New Jersey Stadium” and will host eight matches, including the championship game.
The first World Cup match at MetLife Stadium will take place on June 13, 2026, when Brazil faces Morocco. Brazil is one of the most successful soccer nations in history, making this an exciting opening match for local fans. Three days later, on June 16, France will play Senegal. France won the World Cup in 2018 and is expected to be one of the tournament’s strongest teams.
The third match in New Jersey will be held on June 22 and will feature Norway versus Senegal. Then, on June 25, Ecuador will play Germany. Germany is a four-time World Cup champion and one of the most recognizable teams in international soccer. The final group-stage game at MetLife Stadium will take place on June 27, when England faces Panama. England’s large fan base is expected to create an energetic atmosphere in the stadium.
After the group stage ends, MetLife Stadium will host two knockout-round matches. A Round of 32 game will be played on June 30, followed by a Round of 16 match on July 5. The teams for these games will not be known until the group stage is completed because only the top-performing teams advance to the knockout rounds.
The biggest event of all will take place on July 19, 2026, when MetLife Stadium hosts the FIFA World Cup Final. Millions of fans around the world will watch as two teams compete for soccer’s most prestigious trophy. Hosting the final is a major honor and places New Jersey at the center of one of the world’s largest sporting events.
With matches featuring famous teams such as Brazil, France, Germany, and England, along with knockout-round action and the championship game, MetLife Stadium will play a major role in the 2026 World Cup. For soccer fans in New Jersey, it is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience the excitement of the world’s biggest tournament close to home.
2026 World Cup Matches at MetLife Stadium
Date Match
June 13 Brazil vs. Morocco
June 16 France vs. Senegal
June 22 Norway vs. Senegal
June 25 Ecuador vs. Germany
June 27 Panama vs. England
June 30 Round of 32 Match
July 5 Round of 16 Match
July 19 FIFA World Cup Final
