Expand / Collapse search
☰

Which FIFA World Cup teams will be playing group-stage games in New York, New Jersey?

By
Published  December 6, 2025 8:47am EST
FIFA World Cup
FOX 5 NY
article

FIFA World Cup 26 trophy over New York City skyline (Photos: Getty Images)

The Brief

    • The New York/New Jersey region is confirmed as a host for group-stage matches and will host the final match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
    • The "official draw" later today will assign which teams play in the region.
    • Fans across the tri-state area will likely watch the draw livestream at noon ET for group assignments.

NEW YORK - The New York/New Jersey region is among the premier host sites for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and, importantly, has been selected to host the final match — making it the centerpiece location for the culmination of the world’s biggest soccer tournament.

Teams playing group-stage games there will be revealed once the official Match Schedule Reveal kicks off.

Watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 Match Schedule Reveal live at noon ET here.

What we know: Final & group matches heading to NY/NJ

The regional organizing committee recently confirmed New York/New Jersey will host several group-stage matches — plus the all-important final. Once the draw is held, fans will know exactly which nations will take the field in the metropolitan area.

For fans who want to watch the draw live, a global livestream will be available starting at noon ET.

Why it matters

Hosting the final, on top of the group games, elevates New York/New Jersey as a global hub for the 2026 tournament. With 48 participating teams and 104 total games across three countries, the final match will draw the world’s attention to the region.

Local fans and supporters of multiple nations will have a chance to see top-tier soccer live, while the tournament’s infrastructure, venues, and fan zones are being prepared to handle enormous crowds.

Why it’s not called MetLife Stadium for the FIFA World Cup

For the tournament, MetLife Stadium is temporarily renamed "New York New Jersey Stadium." FIFA does not allow corporate-sponsored venue names during World Cup events, so all host stadiums receive generic titles until the tournament ends. The original name returns once the World Cup is over.

What to expect after today’s draw

Once the draw concludes:

  • The identities of the teams playing in New York/New Jersey will be confirmed.
  • Match dates and venues within the region will be released.
  • Ticketing, stadium and fan-experience details will follow shortly after.

If you’re a local fan — or plan to travel in — mark your calendar: once groups land, tickets, travel and planning begin in earnest.

The Source: Information from FIFA was gathered and used in this article. 


 

FIFA World CupNew YorkNew Jersey