World Cup 2026 Draw takeaways: List of teams that could play in Dallas

DALLAS - North Texas soccer fans are getting excited about the World Cup after learning which teams could play matches at Dallas Stadium (AT&T Stadium) in Arlington.

The teams that the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team might face were also announced during Friday’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Draw.

Who will play in Dallas for the World Cup?

What we know:

Dallas Stadium will host five matches during the group stage for Groups F, L, and J.

Argentina is in Group J. The Netherlands is in Group F and England is in Group L.

Other teams that could possibly play in North Texas for those groups include: 

Group F

• Netherlands
• Japan
• European Qualifier B
• Tunisia

Group J

• Argentina
• Algeria
• Austria
• Jordan

Group L

• England
• Croatia
• Ghana
• Panama

What we don't know:

FIFA has not yet revealed which teams from those groups will play in the North Texas matches on June 14 (Group F), June 17 (Group L), June 22 (Group J), June 25 (Group F), and June 27 (Group J). That’s expected to be announced on Saturday.

We don’t yet know who the Euro Playoff B winner will be. It’s either Ukraine, Sweden, Poland, or Albania. 

Also, as of now, soccer superstar Lionel Messi has not confirmed whether he will play for Argentina.

Dig deeper:

North Texas will also host four additional matches later in the tournament. 

Round of 32

• June 30: Group E (second place) vs. Group I (second place)
• July 3: Group D (second place) vs. Group G (second place)

Round of 16

• July 6: Winner of Group K second place and Group L second place vs. Winner of Group H first place and Group J second place

Semi-Final

• July 14

Local Fan Reactions

What they're saying:

Local soccer fans are getting excited over whether their favorite team will make North Texas their base camp. The overall impact on North Texas is expected to be big.

"It’s huge. It’s the biggest thing in the world," said Abheeshek Sharma.

"It’s going to be incredible. It’s not just the game, it’s about celebrating Dallas," added Jessica Reid.

"Traffic is going to be crazy," Alexis Torres said.

Many fans were also excited to learn which teams the USMNT might face.

"It’s playing out pretty good. We’re gonna play against Australia, Paraguay, and the winner of some playoff. So, it’s a good matchup. We’re excited," a USMNT fan said.

"It looked pretty easy," another USMNT fan joked. "We’ll see once the game starts."

FC Dallas head coach Eriq Quill was on hand for Friday’s festivities.

"We have some teams that are scouting out training here at the FC Dallas facility. Hopefully I’ll get some access to see that firsthand," he said. 

Fans who watched the draw at Billy Bob’s in Fort Worth also got to see live music, win giveaways, meet soccer personalities, and more.

"My hope is that no matter which team comes here there’s a strong showing, and there are many new football fans that come out to learn about the World Cup for sure," said Megan Henderson.

"Honestly, just the fact that the World Cup is coming to our own backyard with so many people, amazing people from around the world. It’s going to be one big party," added Daniel Sanchez.

Is the U.S. playing in Dallas?

The USMNT does not have any games scheduled at Dallas Stadium for the group stage.

If they advance, there is an opportunity for the U.S. to play in Arlington.

The team that comes in second place in Group D will play at Dallas Stadium on July 3 for the Round of 32.

The U.S. could also play in North Texas if they reach the semi-finals.

Will Mexico play in Dallas?

Mexico does not have any games scheduled at AT&T Stadium for the group stage.

If they advance, there is an opportunity for El Tri to play in Arlington. Mexico would have to reach the semi-finals of the tournament after finishing second or third in Group A.

Why will AT&T Stadium be called Dallas Stadium?

AT&T Stadium in Arlington will go by a different name for the 2026 World Cup. 

FIFA policies keep stadiums from using non-sponsor corporate names.

That means AT&T Stadium will go by Dallas Stadium for the soccer tournament. Official sources tell FOX 4 the AT&T logos at and on the stadium will be covered for the games.

Arlington will host nine matches during the World Cup, including one of the semi-finals.

FIFA World CupSportsDallas