U.S. Men’s National Team Announces Charlotte Showdown Ahead of 2026 World Cup

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via US Soccer

The U.S. Men’s National Team just announced plans to come to Charlotte for one of its key matches ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to a press release just sent out by US Soccer, the Allstate Continental Clásico will now take place Sunday, May 31, 2026, at Bank of America Stadium in Uptown Charlotte.

“For us, this is a massive opportunity to challenge ourselves against some of the top teams in the world. These are incredible matches for the players and for the fans,” USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino said. “We are so happy to be playing in our new home of Atlanta, and of course to be competing in the great cities of Charlotte and Chicago ahead of the World Cup.”

The annual showcase features the USMNT against a top rival from the Americas. Previous opponents included Mexico in 2023 and Brazil in 2024. This year’s opponent will be announced soon, and the match will air on TNT, HBO Max, Telemundo, Universo, and Peacock.

The Charlotte game is part of a four-match preparation series that also includes meetings with Belgium, Portugal, and Germany — three World Cup-qualified powerhouses. Belgium brings Kevin De Bruyne and Thibaut Courtois; Portugal will feature Cristiano Ronaldo; and Germany arrives with stars like Kai Havertz and Jamal Musiala.

Tickets go on sale Friday, Dec. 5 at 10 a.m., with presales beginning Wednesday, Dec. 3.

The announcement adds another major international soccer event to Charlotte’s growing sports calendar as the city builds momentum toward the 2026 World Cup.