FIFA World Cup 2026 Play-Offs: Complete Schedule and Fixtures Announced

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Play-Off Tournament is set to deliver thrilling single-leg knockout clashes in Mexico as six nations compete for the final spots at the first-ever 48-team World Cup. Fans can now explore the full schedule, venues, and ticketing details ahead of the high-stakes tournament.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Play-Off Tournament Format and Significance

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Play-Off Tournament will be contested in single-leg knockout matches. This high-pressure format ensures intense, do-or-die encounters as six nations compete for the final slots in the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup. The tournament offers a critical pathway for teams seeking a historic World Cup debut.

Draw and Schedule Confirmation

The draw for the Play-Off Tournament was conducted at the Home of FIFA in Zurich, Switzerland. Following this, the official match schedule was confirmed, outlining dates, venues, and participating teams. Fans can now plan their World Cup journey with clarity on all fixtures.

Venues and Participating Teams

The play-off matches will take place across two Mexican cities, each hosting two matches:

Guadalajara Stadium:

• Hosts play-off pathway 1

• Teams: New Caledonia, Jamaica, and Congo DR

Monterrey Stadium:

• Hosts play-off pathway 2

• Teams: Bolivia, Suriname, and Iraq

Both stadiums are set to provide world-class facilities and an electrifying atmosphere for fans and players alike.

Semi-Finals and Finals Dates

The semi-final matches in both Guadalajara and Monterrey are scheduled for Thursday, March 26, 2026. The winners will then compete in the finals on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, deciding the final teams that will join the 48-nation FIFA World Cup 2026 lineup.

Ticketing Information

Fans eager to witness the play-offs in person can secure tickets via FIFA.com/tickets. Detailed ticketing information, including pricing and availability, is expected to be released early next year. Supporters are encouraged to stay updated to secure their spot at these critical matches.

Context in FIFA World Cup 2026 Build-Up

The Play-Off Tournament in Mexico will be a key milestone ahead of FIFA’s flagship tournament. Other significant events in the build-up include:

• FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Draw: Scheduled for Friday, December 5, at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington DC.

• 76th FIFA Congress: Set to take place in Vancouver, Canada, on Thursday, April 30, 2026.

These events, alongside the high-stakes play-offs, will set the stage for the main tournament kickoff in Mexico City on Thursday, June 11, 2026.

Why Fans Should Follow the Play-Offs

The single-leg knockout format ensures every match is crucial. The play-offs provide a rare opportunity for fans to witness the drama of qualification matches in top-tier stadiums. With teams competing for their first-ever World Cup berth in some cases, the stakes have never been higher.

Conclusion:

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Play-Off Tournament promises electrifying football action in Guadalajara and Monterrey. With single-leg knockouts, clear scheduling, and accessible ticketing, fans have an exciting opportunity to witness history as the final nations secure their spots in the inaugural 48-team World Cup.