Who Will Compete at AT&T Stadium During the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

The Build-Up to a Historic World Cup

As anticipation grows for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, is gearing up to host a significant portion of this global sports event. With its impressive capacity of 94,000, it stands set to welcome soccer fans from around the world, all eager to witness the drama and excitement unfold on the field.

Understanding the 2026 Tournament Structure

The match schedule is set to be unveiled at 11 a.m. CT, showcasing which teams will face off at this iconic venue. This World Cup is particularly notable as it expands to include 48 teams, compared to previous tournaments featuring only 32, effectively enhancing competition and global participation.

The tournament will follow a familiar group stage format, where the teams will be divided into 12 groups of four. The top two teams from each group, along with eight of the best third-place finishers, will advance to the knockout stage. This expanded setup means there will be a total of 104 matches played—an increase from the 64 matches in past tournaments.

Dallas Prepares to Welcome the World

Dallas is uniquely positioned to host not just the local crowd but a global audience, thanks to its robust hospitality and travel infrastructure. With over 130,000 hotel rooms available and two major airports facilitating international travel, the city is ready to offer an unforgettable experience to fans, players, and officials alike. The allure of Texas hospitality will surely leave a lasting impression on all attendees.

Historical Significance and Future Prospects

The legacy of soccer in Dallas is rich, tracing back to the 1994 FIFA World Cup held in the historic Cotton Bowl. The current readiness of AT&T Stadium highlights a significant advancement in Dallas’ ability to host large-scale sports events, thanks to its world-class amenities and prior experience in hosting significant tournaments like the Super Bowl and the College Football Playoff National Championship.

Interestingly, the hosting of matches extends beyond the fields of battle. The international broadcast center, based at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, will ensure fans worldwide can tune in to the matches, further showcasing Dallas as a global sports hub.

The Excitement of Local Community Involvement

The World Cup is more than just sports; it’s a catalyst for community engagement. Local youth soccer programs have thrived, with thousands of participants, and this World Cup offers a chance to elevate soccer culture in Dallas significantly. Events will not only highlight the matches but also promote local talent through various engagements and festivities across the city.

What’s Next?

This Saturday at 11 a.m. CT will mark a pivotal moment as the full match schedule is disclosed. Soccer enthusiasts should continue following local news closely for these updates, as the sporting world will soon focus its eyes on who will compete at AT&T Stadium.

Prepare for what promises to be an electrifying summer in Dallas—mark your calendars, gather your friends, and get ready for a celebration that blends culture, sports, and unforgettable memories.