Venue: NRG Stadium (Tournament Name: Houston Stadium) Capacity: 72,220
Houston is a powerhouse hub for the 2026 tournament, hosting seven matches. As a key gateway for fans traveling from Mexico and South America, “Houston Stadium” will be one of the highest-energy venues in the United States.
| Date | Match Type | Fixture | Key Storyline | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| June 14 | Group E | Germany vs. Curaçao | The heavyweights face a Caribbean dark horse | Buy Tickets |
| June 17 | Group K | Portugal vs. Playoff Winner | Potential final US appearance for global legends | Buy Tickets |
| June 20 | Group F | Netherlands vs. Playoff Winner | Total Football comes to the Space City | Buy Tickets |
| June 23 | Group K | Portugal vs. Uzbekistan | A tactical battle of European vs. Asian powers | Buy Tickets |
| June 26 | Group H | Cabo Verde vs. Saudi Arabia | High-stakes finale for the “Group of Death” | Buy Tickets |
| June 29 | Round of 32 | Winner Group C vs. Runner-up Group F | The knockout drama begins | Buy Tickets |
| July 4 | ROUND OF 16 | TBD vs. TBD | Independence Day Soccer in Texas | Buy Tickets |
Houston Match Storylines & Analysis
June 14: Germany vs. Curaçao (Group E)
A fascinating cultural and tactical contrast. Germany, under the pressure to return to their former glory, kicks off their Houston campaign against Curaçao. While Germany is the heavy favorite, Curaçao’s squad is often bolstered by high-level talent from the Dutch leagues, making them a potential “banana skin” for the Germans. This is a must-watch for fans of the underdogs.
Wednesday, June 17: Portugal vs. Congo DR/Jamaica/New Caledonia (Group K)
The arrival of the Portuguese superstars in Texas. Portugal—training out of Chattanooga, TN—brings their elite technical talent to NRG Stadium. Whether they face the physicality of Congo DR or the flair of Jamaica, this match is expected to be a sell-out. For fans, this is likely one of the final opportunities to see this generation of Portuguese legends on the world stage.
Saturday, June 20: Netherlands v Albania/Poland/Sweden/Ukraine (Group F)
A European blockbuster in the heart of Houston. The Netherlands will face a battle-hardened opponent from the UEFA playoffs. Given Houston’s diverse international population, the atmosphere will be electric. This Group F fixture often serves as the “anchor” match for fans traveling from Europe to follow the Dutch “Oranje” army through the United States.
Tuesday, June 23: Portugal vs. Uzbekistan (Group K)
One of the most intriguing tactical matchups of the group stage. Uzbekistan has become a powerhouse in Asian football, and their organized defensive structure will be tested by Portugal’s relentless attacking rotations. This match could decide the top spot in Group K and dictate the “easier” path through the knockout stages.
Friday, June 26: Cabo Verde v Saudi Arabia (Group H)
A high-stakes Group H finale. Both teams are known for their speed and technical ability in transition. This match is likely to have significant implications for the Round of 32, especially for fans tracking the “Path to the Final” in the lower half of the bracket.
Logistics: Navigating the Space City
Houston is a sprawling metropolis, but the “Technical Efficiency” of your matchday experience depends on using the rail corridor.
The Red Line Hack: Do not attempt to drive to NRG Park on matchday. Use the METRORail Red Line, which runs directly from Downtown and the Museum District to the Stadium Park/Astrodome Station. The stadium gates are just a 3-minute walk from the rail exit.
Stay in the Loop: For the best logistics, book your stay in Downtown or Midtown. You’ll be on the rail line and within walking distance of the best pre-match bars.
The Retractable Advantage: NRG Stadium is a fully climate-controlled, retractable-roof venue. This is vital for the intense Houston humidity in June, ensuring the pitch and the fans stay cool.
Fan Experience: EaDo & Beyond
The FIFA Fan Festival™: Located in East Downtown (EaDo), this hub will be the heartbeat of the city. Expect a multicultural “Football Fiesta” reflecting Houston’s deep Hispanic and international roots.
Pitch 25: Owned by MLS legend Brian Ching, this is Houston’s premier soccer bar. It features an indoor pitch and 100+ beers on tap, located just steps from the Fan Festival.
The “Astrodome Aura”: Fans should arrive early to see the historic Astrodome, located right next to the modern stadium—a perfect spot for iconic tournament photos.