FIFA World Cup 2026 at MetLife Stadium: Matches, Transportation and Where to Stay

The FIFA World Cup is going to bring thousands of football fans to MetLife Stadium throughout this summer. This guide covers the World Cup match schedule, transportation options, New York Sightseeing opportunities and accommodations ideas for visitors attending matches in the region.

Located just outside New York City, MetLife Stadium offers visitors a unique opportunity to combine World Cup excitement with sightseeing in one of the world’s most iconic destinations. Whether you’re traveling internationally or visiting from elsewhere in the United States, planning ahead will help you make the most of your experience.

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#1: Experience the FIFA World Cup at MetLife Stadium

MetLife Stadium is one of the largest sports venues in the United States, with a capacity of more than 82,000 spectators. The stadium has previously hosted the Super Bowl, the Copa América Centenario Final, and some of the world’s biggest concerts, making it a fitting stage for the FIFA World Cup.

One of the greatest advantages of attending matches at MetLife Stadium is its location. Visitors can spend their mornings exploring New York City landmarks, afternoons enjoying local restaurants and neighborhoods, and evenings cheering on their favorite teams.

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#2: Match Schedule at MetLife Stadium

MetLife Stadium’s confirmed FIFA World Cup 2026 schedule includes five group-stage matches, two knockout-round matches, and the tournament final.

Group Stage Matches

• Saturday, June 13, 2026
  Brazil vs. Morocco — 6:00 PM ET
• Tuesday, June 16, 2026
  France vs. Senegal — 3:00 PM ET
• Monday, June 22, 2026
  Norway vs. Senegal — 8:00 PM ET
• Thursday, June 25, 2026
  Ecuador vs. Germany — 4:00 PM ET
• Saturday, June 27, 2026
  Panama vs. England — 5:00 PM ET

Knockout Matches

• Tuesday, June 30, 2026 — Round of 32
• Sunday, July 5, 2026 — Round of 16

Finale

• Sunday, July 19, 2026 — FIFA World Cup Final

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#3: Getting to MetLife Stadium

Although located in New Jersey, MetLife Stadium is easily accessible from New York City. For most visitors, public transportation will be the easiest and most convenient option. Visitors can use the MTA’s extensive subway and bus network to reach major transit hubs. 

NJ Transit will also operate a special Meadowlands rail service connecting Secaucus Junction directly to MetLife Stadium on match days. Visitors staying in Manhattan can travel from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction before boarding the Meadowlands train.

Coach USA’s 351 Meadowlands Express bus also offers direct service from Manhattan to the stadium during major events. Visitors planning to drive should reserve parking in advance and expect heavy traffic before and after matches.

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#4: Explore New York Between Matches

One of the benefits of attending the FIFA World Cup in the New York/New Jersey area is the opportunity to explore the city between games.

Popular attractions include Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the High Line. Many visitors also spend time exploring neighborhoods such as Greenwich Village, SoHo, Williamsburg, and DUMBO. There are also plenty of free things to see and do In New York City.

Visitors staying for several days can take advantage of everything New York has to offer during the summer months, from outdoor events and ways to beat the summer heat to neighborhood festivals and cultural attractions highlighted in our summer in New York guide. Those looking to extend their trip beyond the city can also discover some of the incredible day trips New York has to offer. Beyond the city’s most famous landmarks, there are also plenty of alternative attractions for repeat visitors of New York to discover.

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#5: Where to Stay During the FIFA World Cup

Hotel rooms and short-term rentals across the New York metropolitan area are expected to fill quickly as the tournament approaches, making early planning especially important for international visitors. 

Many visitors often choose to stay in Jersey City because it offers convenient access to both Manhattan and MetLife Stadium. Other popular areas include Hoboken, Long Island City, Downtown Brooklyn, and Midtown Manhattan.

Travelers looking for flexible accommodations can browse New York Habitat’s collection of vacation rentals in New York and New Jersey, which includes options suitable for couples, families, and groups attending the tournament.

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#6: Staying Near MetLife Stadium

For visitors looking to stay close to the action, this furnished two-bedroom duplex vacation rental in Jersey City’s West Side neighborhood is an excellent choice. Accommodating up to four guests, the apartment features two private bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, television, a private patio and garden, as well as two dedicated parking spaces—a valuable convenience during major events such as the FIFA World Cup.

Located approximately 20 to 25 minutes from MetLife Stadium, the property offers easy access to match-day transportation while allowing guests to enjoy a quieter residential setting away from the crowds. Nearby NJ Transit bus routes provide connections to Journal Square, Manhattan, and other destinations throughout the New York metropolitan area, making it easy to balance sightseeing and football during your stay.

Beyond this featured rental, New York Habitat offers dozens of accommodations throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Jersey City, and other nearby neighborhoods. Whether you’re hoping to stay steps from New York City’s iconic attractions or closer to the stadium itself, our multilingual team can help you find the right fit for your trip.

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#7: Match-Day Tips

Before heading to the stadium, remember to:

• Purchase tickets only through official FIFA channels.
• Review MetLife Stadium’s bag policy.
• Arrive early for security screening.
• Purchase transportation tickets in advance.
• Reserve parking early if driving.
• Stay hydrated and dress comfortably for summer weather.

With world-class football, an unforgettable atmosphere, and easy access to one of the world’s most exciting cities, the FIFA World Cup at MetLife Stadium promises to be one of the highlights of the summer.

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