The 2026 FIFA World Cup is almost here, and while the opening whistle blows in Mexico City, there's plenty of action headed straight to Texas that New York fans won't want to miss. With 16 host cities across three nations—Canada, Mexico, and the United States—this tournament is set to be the biggest yet, featuring 48 teams vying for glory.

For New Yorkers, the journey begins on Thursday, June 11, when the World Cup kicks off in Mexico City with Group A matches, including host nation Mexico facing South Africa. From there, the energy shifts to Texas, where iconic venues like Dallas Stadium in Arlington and Houston Stadium will host over a dozen matches. Whether you're planning a road trip or just following from home, here's your guide to the Lone Star State's World Cup highlights.

Dallas Stadium is a major hub, hosting nine matches total—including four knockout games. The group stage features heavyweights like the Netherlands, Japan, England, Croatia, Argentina, Austria, and Jordan. The action ramps up with two Round of 32 fixtures, a Round of 16 showdown, and the tournament's first semi-final on Tuesday, July 14. It's a lineup that promises drama and world-class football.

Houston Stadium isn't far behind, with seven matches on tap. Alongside group-stage excitement, the venue will host two knockout-phase games, adding to the city's electric atmosphere. Texas is truly becoming a World Cup destination, offering a mix of top-tier competition and Southern hospitality.

For fans tracking the full schedule, here's a glimpse of key matches (times in CT):

- Group A: Mexico vs. South Africa (Mexico City) – 2 p.m.
- Group A: South Korea vs. Czechia (Zapopan, Mexico) – 9 p.m.
- Group B: Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina (Toronto) – 2 p.m.
- Group D: United States vs. Paraguay (Inglewood, Calif.) – 8 p.m.
- Group C: Brazil vs. Morocco (East Rutherford, N.J.) – 5 p.m.
- Group E: Germany vs. Curaçao (Houston) – Noon

With matches spanning from coast to coast and a heavy Texas presence, the 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be an unforgettable celebration of soccer. Gear up, New York—this is one tournament you'll want to follow every step of the way.