The United States co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup puts the tournament squarely in American time zones, making World Cup predictions especially relevant for US bettors. With the semifinals now confirmed, the knockout rounds have reshaped the bracket entirely: the USMNT’s run ended in the Round of 16, and the last four sees France meet Spain and England face defending champions Argentina, with the final set for MetLife Stadium on July 19.
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This guide covers the confirmed semifinal matchups, a full recap of every knockout round including the USA’s exit, and outright markets, with a dedicated focus on the closing stages of the 48 team format that introduced 12 groups and a new Round of 32. Below, we start with the top US sportsbooks for the tournament before breaking down the semifinal predictions.
Best US Sports Betting Sites for the 2026 World Cup
Choosing the right platform is key when comparing World Cup 2026 predictions, especially for American players looking for strong soccer market coverage and reliable payout options. The sportsbooks below are selected for their World Cup focus, including knockout-stage betting, live markets, and outright winner options.
Always verify that a sportsbook is licensed in your state before signing up, and check the sportsbook directly for how to bet on the World Cup, the latest features and payment methods.
FanDuel
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FanDuel is a premier choice for US bettors, pairing an industry-best mobile app with reliable payouts and a deep Same Game Parlay builder ideal for match by match World Cup wagering.
- Features diverse markets including results, totals, and player props.
- Industry-best app rated 4.9 out of 5 on iOS.
- Supports fast 24-hour PayPal withdrawals.
BetMGM
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BetMGM is an excellent platform for bettors targeting market variety, standing out with exceptional depth of 100 plus betting options per major World Cup match.
- Offers the most comprehensive World Cup markets available.
- Edit My Bet feature allows in-play adjustments.
- MGM Rewards points redeemable across 30 plus properties.
DraftKings
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DraftKings caters to fans who love live action, delivering sub-2 second odds updates and sharp soccer pricing throughout the World Cup.
- Best live betting infrastructure with rapid odds refresh.
- SGP plus enables cross-match parlays in one ticket.
- Sharpest pricing on 3-way soccer moneylines.
Caesars
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Caesars provides a beginner-friendly experience, making it the perfect sportsbook for casual bettors exploring World Cup action for the first time.
- Most beginner-friendly interface among major books.
- Flexible 12-leg Same Game Parlay builder.
- Caesars Rewards integration with luxury redemptions.
bet365
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bet365 is ideal for fans who value global soccer expertise, bringing deep tournament knowledge across 70 plus leagues and a signature early payout feature.
- Decades of international soccer betting experience.
- 2 Goals Ahead Early Payout on match markets.
- Watch and Bet live streaming integration.
Fanatics
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Fanatics is a strong choice for fans who want rewards with every wager, offering FanCash on every bet regardless of the outcome throughout the World Cup.
- Earns FanCash on every bet, win or lose.
- Redeem rewards for official team merchandise.
- Clean modern interface with growing soccer coverage.
-
These sportsbooks are fully licensed US operators regulated by state gaming commissions. Availability varies by state, so always confirm that online sports betting is legal where you are located and that you are physically present in a legal state before signing up.
2026 World Cup Outright Predictions Who Will Win
With the field down to four, World Cup outright winner odds now favor France, with Spain, England, and Argentina in pursuit. Brazil, one of the pre-tournament favorites, were knocked out by Norway in the Round of 16, reshaping the market. The four semifinalists are the only teams left in the outright market, and prices will shorten sharply once the finalists are known (all odds subject to change).
| Team | Approx. Odds (American, subject to change) | Key Strength | Betting Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| France | +150 | Squad depth, most productive attack | Unbeaten; reached semis without conceding in the knockouts |
| Spain | +350 | Possession dominance, meanest defense | Beat Portugal and Belgium en route to the last four |
| Argentina | +400 | Winning experience, knockout composure | Reigning 2022 champions; needed extra time twice |
| England | +450 | Tactical flexibility, young core | Beat Mexico and Norway; Bellingham scoring in every round |
France have moved to the head of the market on the back of an unbeaten run and the tournament’s most productive attack, reaching the semifinals without conceding across their three knockout matches. Spain counter with the meanest defense in the tournament, while defending champions Argentina carry proven knockout composure, having needed extra time in both the Round of 16 and the quarterfinal. England advanced on squad depth and the goals of Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, who has scored in every knockout round.
The USA’s run as a co-host nation ended in the Round of 16, but the tournament remains squarely in American time zones for the closing stages, with the semifinals in Arlington and Atlanta and the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. For US bettors, the outright market now centers on which of the four remaining sides offers the best value at the price.
From a performance perspective, the closing rounds reward teams that have managed minutes and sustained physical output deep into the knockouts. France’s clean-sheet run and Spain’s tempo control point to conditioning as a decisive factor, and these physical and performance metrics are key indicators when assessing semifinal viability, for more detail, see soccer sports science and testing data.
2026 World Cup Predictions Group Stage Recap
The group stage set the knockout bracket, and these 2026 World Cup predictions now look back at how the most important sections played out for US bettors, including the USA’s Group D campaign, before the round-by-round knockout recap that follows. Match times are listed in ET, and all betting picks use American odds.
From a USA World Cup perspective, the qualification markets that offered better value than outright winner bets paid off, with the USMNT topping Group D before their knockout run ended in the Round of 16. For a full breakdown of each group, see our World Cup group predictions.
Group D USA Win the Group
The USA’s home fixtures made this the most important section for USA World Cup predictions, and the national team delivered, winning Group D after a commanding 4-1 opening win over Paraguay and a result against Australia. A 3-2 loss to Türkiye on the final matchday did not matter, as top spot was already secured. Türkiye were eliminated, while Australia advanced as runners-up and Paraguay went through as a best third-placed team.
| Match | Date & Time (ET) | Venue | Result | Pre-Match Pick |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USA vs Paraguay | June 12, 9:00 PM ET | SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles | USA won 4-1 | USA Win (landed) |
| USA vs Australia | June 19, 3:00 PM ET | Lumen Field, Seattle | USA advanced as group winners | Under 2.5 Goals |
| Türkiye vs USA | June 25, 10:00 PM ET | SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles | Türkiye won 3-2 (USA already through) | BTTS Yes (landed) |
These group stage results confirmed a final Group D order of USA 1st, Australia 2nd, Paraguay 3rd (advanced), and Türkiye eliminated, setting up a knockout path that ran through Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32.
Group I France Win, Norway Through
Group I was one of the strongest sections in these FIFA World Cup predictions, and it delivered drama. France topped the group but were beaten 4-1 by Norway on the final matchday, with Erling Haaland and company confirming their attacking threat. France, Norway, and Senegal all advanced, and our pre-tournament dark-horse call on Norway paid off in full as they went on to knock out Brazil in the Round of 16.
| Match | Date & Time (ET) | Venue | Result | Pre-Match Pick |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| France vs Senegal | June 16, 3:00 PM ET | MetLife Stadium, New Jersey | France won 3-1 | France Win (landed) |
| Norway vs France | June 26, 3:00 PM ET | Gillette Stadium, Boston | Norway won 4-1 | BTTS Yes (landed) |
Group C Brazil and Morocco Advance
Brazil vs Morocco was one of the best group stage fixtures for World Cup 2026 predictions, and both teams advanced from Group C. Brazil won the group on goal difference after a 1-1 draw with Morocco, and both carried their form into the knockouts, with Morocco knocking out the Netherlands on penalties and reaching the quarterfinals, and Brazil edging Japan before their run ended against Norway.
| Match | Date & Time (ET) | Venue | Result | Pre-Match Pick |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brazil vs Morocco | June 13, 6:00 PM ET | MetLife Stadium, New Jersey | 1-1 draw (Brazil won group on GD) | Brazil Win |
Group L England Win the Group
England vs Croatia carried major tournament history and drew strong interest from US viewers with English and Croatian ties. England topped Group L, with Croatia advancing as runners-up and Ghana going through as a best third-placed team. England went on to reach the semifinals, beating Mexico and Norway in the knockouts.
| Match | Date & Time (ET) | Venue | Result | Pre-Match Pick |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| England vs Croatia | June 17, 4:00 PM ET | AT&T Stadium, Arlington TX | England won the group; both advanced | England Win |
Group J Argentina Win the Group
Argentina entered Group J as defending champions and won it, with Austria and Algeria also advancing after a dramatic 3-3 draw on the final matchday. Argentina’s tournament pedigree delivered, and they went on to reach the semifinals, coming through extra time in both the Round of 16 and the quarterfinal.
| Match | Date & Time (ET) | Venue | Result | Pre-Match Pick |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Argentina vs Austria | June 22, 1:00 PM ET | AT&T Stadium, Arlington TX | Argentina won 2-0 | Argentina Win and Under 3.5 (landed) |
World Cup 2026 Knockout Recap by Round
The knockout bracket has reshaped the outright picture entirely, narrowing 32 teams down to a final four. Below we recap each round on the path to the semifinals, including the USA’s Round of 16 exit, with results and the form context behind each. Predictions and results are updated as matches are played.
How the New Knockout Format Works
The expanded tournament structure introduced a major change to World Cup knockout stage predictions, with 32 teams advancing from the group stage instead of 16. This created a new Round of 32 before the traditional Round of 16, increasing the number of elimination matches and opening up more betting opportunities for US bettors following both favorites and underdogs.
The Round of 32 ran from June 28 to July 3, 2026, featuring all qualified teams from the group stage, the 12 group winners, 12 runners-up, and the eight best third-placed teams. The Round of 16 followed from July 4 to July 7, the quarterfinals from July 9 to July 11, and the semifinals on July 14 and July 15. The format’s volatility showed immediately, with Germany and the Netherlands both eliminated on penalties in the Round of 32.
Round of 32 Recap June 28 to July 3 2026
| Match | Fixture | Result |
|---|---|---|
|
Match 73 |
South Africa vs Canada |
Canada won 1-0 |
|
Match 74 |
Germany vs Paraguay |
Paraguay won 4-3 on penalties |
|
Match 75 |
Netherlands vs Morocco |
Morocco won 3-2 on penalties |
|
Match 76 |
Brazil vs Japan |
Brazil won 2-1 |
|
Match 77 |
France vs Sweden |
France won 3-0 |
|
Match 78 |
Ivory Coast vs Norway |
Norway won 2-1 |
|
Match 79 |
Mexico vs Ecuador |
Mexico won 2-0 |
|
Match 80 |
England vs DR Congo |
England won 2-1 |
|
Match 81 |
USA vs Bosnia and Herzegovina |
USA won 2-0 (advanced to R16) |
|
Match 82 |
Belgium vs Senegal |
Belgium won 3-2 (after extra time) |
|
Match 83 |
Portugal vs Croatia |
Portugal won 2-1 |
|
Match 84 |
Spain vs Austria |
Spain won 3-0 |
|
Match 85 |
Switzerland vs Algeria |
Switzerland won 2-1 |
|
Match 86 |
Argentina vs Cape Verde |
Argentina won 3-2 (after extra time) |
|
Match 87 |
Colombia vs Ghana |
Colombia won 1-0 |
|
Match 88 |
Australia vs Egypt |
Egypt won 1-1 (4-2 on penalties) |
The Round of 32 delivered on its billing immediately, with Germany and the Netherlands both eliminated on penalties by Paraguay and Morocco. Canada opened the round with a 1-0 win over South Africa, and the USA came through against Bosnia and Herzegovina to reach the Round of 16, one of three co-hosts to make the last 32.
Round of 16 Recap July 4 to July 7 2026
| Match | Fixture | Result |
|---|---|---|
|
Match 89 |
Paraguay vs France |
France won 1-0 |
|
Match 90 |
Canada vs Morocco |
Morocco won 3-0 |
|
Match 91 |
Brazil vs Norway |
Norway won 2-1 |
|
Match 92 |
Mexico vs England |
England won 3-2 |
|
Match 93 |
Portugal vs Spain |
Spain won 1-0 |
|
Match 94 |
USA vs Belgium |
Belgium won 4-1 (USA eliminated) |
|
Match 95 |
Argentina vs Egypt |
Argentina won 3-2 (after extra time) |
|
Match 96 |
Colombia vs Switzerland |
Switzerland won 0-0 (4-3 on penalties) |
The Round of 16 produced the tournament’s biggest shock, with Brazil knocked out by Norway, while co-hosts USA and Mexico both exited. Belgium comfortably beat the USA 4-1 to end the host nation’s run, England won a thriller against Mexico at the Estadio Azteca with Kane and Bellingham decisive, Spain edged Portugal on a 90th-minute Mikel Merino strike, and Argentina came from two down late against Egypt to win in extra time.
Quarterfinal Recap July 9 to July 11 2026
| Match | Fixture | Result |
|---|---|---|
|
QF1 |
France vs Morocco |
France won 2-0 |
|
QF2 |
Spain vs Belgium |
Spain won 2-1 |
|
QF3 |
England vs Norway |
England won 2-1 (after extra time) |
|
QF4 |
Argentina vs Switzerland |
Argentina won 3-1 (after extra time) |
The quarterfinals produced a clean sweep for the tournament’s top-ranked sides. For the first time in World Cup history, all four of FIFA’s top four-ranked teams reached the semifinals. France eased past Morocco 2-0 despite a missed first-half Mbappé penalty, Spain’s Mikel Merino struck late again for an 88th-minute winner over Belgium, England needed extra time and a Jude Bellingham brace to end Norway’s run and Haaland’s tournament, and a 112th-minute Julián Álvarez strike broke down a ten-man Switzerland to send Argentina through.
Match numbering such as Match 81 and Match 94 follows the official tournament bracket structure used for the 2026 World Cup knockout stage. Some bettors also explore World Cup correct score predictions, which offer higher odds but require precise outcomes.
Semifinal Predictions Confirmed
The semifinals are set, and they pit the tournament’s four strongest sides against each other on US soil. France meet Spain in Arlington on Tuesday July 14, and England face defending champions Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday July 15. The two winners meet in the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19, with the third-place playoff on July 18. Match times are listed in ET, and all betting picks use American odds (subject to change).
France vs Spain Tuesday July 14 AT&T Stadium Arlington
France vs Spain is, in effect, the market’s two best teams meeting a round early. France arrive as the form side of the tournament, unbeaten and with the most productive attack, led by Golden Boot co-leader Kylian Mbappé alongside Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise. Spain counter with the tournament’s meanest defense and a possession game built around Lamine Yamal and Pedri, and they have beaten France in each of their last two meetings, at Euro 2024 and in 2025.
This is a contrast of styles where late-game fatigue often decides the margin. Spain’s control of tempo is designed to starve opponents of the ball, but France’s ability to counter at speed through Mbappé makes them lethal in transition. France are favored to advance, though Spain’s recent record against them makes this the tie of the round.
England vs Argentina Wednesday July 15 Mercedes-Benz Stadium Atlanta
England vs Argentina is a heavyweight meeting of the tournament’s second favorites and its defending champions. England have reached the semifinals on squad depth and the goals of Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, who has scored in every knockout round. Argentina, roared on by Lionel Messi in what is expected to be his final World Cup, have relied on late individual brilliance, needing extra time in both the Round of 16 and the quarterfinal.
The indoor Mercedes-Benz Stadium removes heat and humidity, conditions that football fitness data suggests favor technically structured teams that rely on consistent ball circulation, a small edge for England. Argentina’s tournament experience and knockout composure are proven, but England are marginal favorites to reach the final on the balance of form and freshness.
Both ties are likely to turn on fitness and composure in the closing stages, exactly the factors that have decided the knockouts so far. This section will be updated as the semifinals are played and the final is confirmed.
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Our Top World Cup Betting Tips for US Bettors
In-play World Cup betting allows bettors to react to changing match conditions in real time, with odds shifting after key moments such as goals, red cards, and substitutions, which matters even more now in single-elimination semifinal ties.
Expert Tips and Betting Angles
Targeting smart value is key when reviewing World Cup betting tips, especially now that every match is win-or-go-home. The following angles are based on team strength, the confirmed semifinal draw, and betting market trends. These picks highlight some of the best teams to back in the closing stages.
Combining multiple selections is another popular strategy, and bettors often explore World Cup parlay predictions to increase potential returns through multi-bet wagers.
Tip 1 France to reach the final
France arrive as the form side of the tournament, unbeaten and without conceding across their three knockout matches. With the most productive attack left in the field and Golden Boot co-leader Kylian Mbappé in form, they are favored to come through against Spain.
Recommended Bet France to reach the final [ODDS TBD] (subject to change)
Tip 2 Golden Boot Mbappé and Messi level at the top
Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi are level at the top of the scoring chart on eight goals apiece, with England’s Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham close behind on six. With all four still in the tournament, the race will be settled across the semifinals and final.
Recommended Bet Kylian Mbappé to win the Golden Boot [ODDS TBD] (subject to change)
Tip 3 England vs Argentina Both Teams to Score
The second semifinal pairs England’s attacking depth against an Argentina side that has scored in every knockout round through late individual brilliance. That profile points to goals at both ends in a tight, high-quality tie.
Recommended Bet England vs Argentina Both Teams to Score [ODDS TBD] (subject to change)
Tip 4 Argentina to win the tournament
Defending champions Argentina have relied on knockout composure, coming through extra time in both the Round of 16 and the quarterfinal. Roared on by Lionel Messi in what is expected to be his final World Cup, they remain a strong outright play for US bettors backing a repeat.
Recommended Bet Argentina to win the World Cup +400 (subject to change)
USA World Cup 2026 Host Nation Run Ends in the Round of 16
The USA’s return to the global stage took on added significance in USA World Cup 2026, with the national team playing matches on home soil for the first time since hosting in 1994. The USMNT topped Group D and won their Round of 32 tie against Bosnia and Herzegovina at Levi’s Stadium, before their run ended in the Round of 16 with a 4-1 defeat to Belgium.
From a squad perspective, the USA’s run was driven by Christian Pulisic and a young European-based core. Pulisic’s creativity and end product gave the team a focal point in attack, and matching the 1994 side’s Round of 16 finish on home soil represented solid progress even as the Belgium defeat exposed the gap to the tournament’s elite.
With the host nation eliminated, US betting interest for the closing stages shifts to the outright market and the semifinal ties. The tournament stays in American time zones through the final, with the semifinals in Arlington and Atlanta and the final at MetLife Stadium, keeping convenient kickoff windows for domestic bettors backing France, Spain, England, or Argentina.
From a betting perspective, the value now sits in advancement and outright markets among the last four rather than host-nation angles. France’s shortening price reflects their clean-sheet knockout run, while England and Argentina offer longer prices for bettors seeking value beyond the clear favorite.
How to Read American Odds A Quick Guide for US Bettors
Understanding World Cup betting odds is essential for US bettors, as sportsbooks in the United States primarily use American moneyline odds. American odds show how much you win on a 100 dollar stake, or how much you must stake to win 100 dollars, making them the standard format across US books.
A negative number such as -150 indicates the favorite and shows how much you must wager to win 100 dollars. A positive number such as +250 indicates the underdog and shows your profit on a 100 dollar bet. The larger the positive number, the longer the odds and the bigger the potential payout.
Example World Cup Outright Odds (Semifinalists)
| Team | American Odds (subject to change) | $10 Bet Profit |
|---|---|---|
|
France |
+150 |
$15.00 |
|
Spain |
+350 |
$35.00 |
|
Argentina |
+400 |
$40.00 |
|
England |
+450 |
$45.00 |
To calculate profit on positive odds, divide the odds by 100 and multiply by your stake. For example, a 10 dollar bet on England at +450 returns 45 dollars profit plus your stake back. Longer odds reflect a lower probability but a much higher potential payout.
Responsible Gambling Bet Safely on the World Cup
Betting on the tournament should always be approached as entertainment, and it is important to stay in control of your activity.
For additional tools and advice, visit your sportsbook’s responsible gambling section or our internal responsible gambling page.
Gamble Responsibly
Sports betting should enhance your World Cup viewing experience, not create financial stress. The 2026 World Cup spans 39 days with 104 matches, so it is essential to set limits and bet responsibly throughout the tournament.
Set a budget before the tournament starts and divide it across the 39 days for a daily limit. Never bet more than you can afford to lose. Use deposit limits available at all major sportsbooks before placing your first bet. Avoid chasing losses and stick to predetermined unit sizes.
If betting stops being fun or you are betting more than intended, reach out for support.
National Problem Gambling Hotline 1-800-522-4700 (24/7 confidential support)
Alternative Hotline 1-800-GAMBLER
Online Chat Support NCPGambling.org/chat
Self-Exclusion Programs Every legal sportsbook offers voluntary self-exclusion of 1 to 5 years
You must be 21 or older to bet on sports in the United States (18 or older in DC, Kentucky, New Hampshire, and Wyoming). All recommended sportsbooks verify age and identity before allowing betting. Underage gambling is illegal.
2026 World Cup Predictions Frequently Asked Questions
Who is predicted to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
With the field down to four, France lead the market as the semifinals approach, with Spain, England, and defending champions Argentina in pursuit. Brazil, a pre-tournament favorite, were knocked out by Norway in the Round of 16. Final outcomes depend heavily on the single-elimination semifinal matchups, injuries, and form.
Did the USA make a deep run at the 2026 World Cup?
The USA won Group D and came through their Round of 32 tie against Bosnia and Herzegovina at Levi’s Stadium, before their run ended in the Round of 16 with a 4-1 defeat to Belgium. Matching the 1994 side’s Round of 16 finish on home soil represented solid progress for a young USMNT squad.
Where can I bet on the World Cup in the US?
US bettors can place wagers through licensed online sportsbooks available in their state. It is important to verify that any sportsbook is licensed for use in your state before registering, and to confirm you are physically located in a legal betting state. FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, Caesars, bet365, and Fanatics all operate legally under state gaming commission oversight.
What are American odds and how do I read them?
American odds show how much you win on a 100 dollar stake or how much you must stake to win 100 dollars. A negative number such as -150 marks the favorite and shows the stake needed to win 100 dollars. A positive number such as +250 marks the underdog and shows the profit on a 100 dollar bet. This format is standard across US sportsbooks.
What is the Round of 32 in the 2026 World Cup?
The Round of 32 is a new knockout stage introduced in the expanded format, where 32 teams advance from the group stage instead of 16. It ran from June 28 to July 3, 2026, and produced early upsets, with Germany and the Netherlands both eliminated on penalties by Paraguay and Morocco. It created more matches and additional betting opportunities before the Round of 16.
How do I place a parlay bet on the World Cup?
A parlay combines multiple selections into one bet, where all outcomes must win for a payout. To place one, add several picks to your bet slip and confirm them as a single wager. While payouts are higher, the risk increases with each added selection. Same Game Parlays combine multiple outcomes from a single match.
Are World Cup betting winnings taxable in the US?
In the United States, gambling winnings are generally considered taxable income and must be reported to the IRS. Sportsbooks may issue tax forms for larger payouts, and rules can vary by state. Individual circumstances differ, so verify with a qualified tax adviser for your personal situation.
Who is the favorite to win the Golden Boot at the 2026 World Cup?
The Golden Boot race is led by Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi, level on eight goals each, with England’s Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham close behind on six. All four remain in the tournament, so the race will be settled across the semifinals and final. Norway’s Erling Haaland was in contention before his tournament ended in the quarterfinals.
What is the best value World Cup outright bet for US bettors?
With four teams left, the value case sits with England and Argentina, both live contenders priced longer than clear favorite France. Spain also offer value as the side with the tournament’s meanest defense. Outright winner bets still carry significant risk in single-elimination knockout ties.
Where are the 2026 World Cup US host venues?
The United States hosts matches across several cities, including SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Lumen Field in Seattle, and Levi’s Stadium in the San Francisco Bay Area. The semifinals are in Arlington and Atlanta, and the final will be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
