In 2026, the eyes of the football world turn to Houston — and fans won’t be disappointed. The city is set to host seven matches at NRG Stadium (temporarily renamed “Houston Stadium” for FIFA World Cup 26) as part of the expanded tournament. These include five group stage matches, one Round of 32 match, and one Round of 16 match, stretching from mid-June through early July. This article by CandyGoal will guide you through the full match days and dates that what world cup games will be played in Houston, plus what to expect and how to plan for them.
Houston’s home for the 2026 World Cup: venue & format
Houston’s matches will all be in the iconic NRG Stadium, known for its retractable roof, large capacity, and past big events like the Su, the stadium is officially referred to as Houston Stadium under FIFA’s policy on corporate names.
Because the tournament has expanded to 48 teams, the group stage format now involves 12 groups of four, followed by a knockout stage with a Round of 32, Round of 16 etc. Houston’s share is substantial: 7 of the 104 total matches will take place there.
Match schedule: dates & rounds in Houston
Here are the dates and rounds of the World Cup matches Houston will host at NRG Stadium:
| Round | Date | Notes |
| Group stage | Sunday, June 14, 2026 | First match in Houston’s schedule. |
| Group stage | Wednesday, June 17, 2026 | |
| Group stage | Saturday, June 20, 2026 | |
| Group stage | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 | |
| Group stage | Friday, June 26, 2026 | |
| Round of 32 | Monday, June 29, 2026 | |
| Round of 16 | Saturday, July 4, 2026 |
What to expect: match types & atmosphere
- Five group matches: A mix of different national teams, some possibly among the hosts (USA, Mexico, Canada), others.
- Knockout games: The intensity ramps up with the Round of 32 and then Round of 16. Single-elimination stakes mean every pass, goal, and save counts more.
- Hot weather & timing: Matches in Houston in June are likely to be hot and potentially humid. Evening kickoffs might ease the heat, but planning for weather (hydration, shade, etc.) will be crucial.
- Large mobilization of fans: With seven matches across weeks, expect big crowds, travel demands, hotel pressure, and bustling fan zones. Houston is organizing fan festivals and related events to embrace the global crowd.
Why Houston’s selection matters
- Houston hosting 7 games is one of the larger allocations among U.S. cities for 2026. It’s not just a matter of quantity, but also importancegetting to host both group matches and knockout rounds speaks to the city’s infrastructure, popularity, and strategic place in the tournament.
- The diversity of matches—group and knockout stages—makes Houston a key stop for neutral fans and supporters of many different national teams.
- Itengthens the legacy of NRG Stadium/Houston as a venue that handles major international events, adding to its Su.
Tips for fans in Houston
- Get tickets early: Given the demand for group matches and knockout rounds, early registration or pre-sales could be key. Houston matches will likely sell fast.
- Plan transport and lodging: NRG Stadium is accessible but heavy traffic and hotel demand will spike. Stay informed about public transit, shuttle services, and local accommodations.
- Heat readiness: Pack for hot summer conditions — light, breathable clothing, sun protection, and hydration essentials. Evening games may be cooler but still warm.
- Experience beyond the pitch: Fan festivals, local culture, food, and community events in Houston will enhance the tournament experience. Don’t just watch the game—immerse yourself in the event.
What remains uncertain
- Exact matchups: As of now, the specific teams for each date and match in Houston haven’t all been confirmed. Group draw, qualification outcomes, and allocation of teams to groups will clarify that.
- Kickoff times: Local match times (morning, afternoon, evening) are likely to be announced closer to the tournament, taking into account weather, broadcasting, and other logistical factors.
- Supporter logistics details: Parking, fan zones, access, tickets, etc., will be more clearly laid out as the event approaches.
Conclusion
What world cup games will be played in Houston? In short: seven electrifying matches at Houston Stadium (NRG) during FIFA World Cup 2026 — five group stage games, followed by a Round of 32 game on June 29, and a Round of 16 match on July 4. These fixtures will provide both drama and global flavor, placing Houston at the heart of the tournament’s action.
If you’re planning to be there, now is the time to start gearing up—keep an eye on tickets, get your accommodation sorted, and follow the draw to see which national teams you’ll be cheering on. CandyGoal will continue updating details as confirmation of teams, times, and matchups become available. Stay tuned!
