Mandy
The FIFA World Cup Final Draw has revealed a much clearer picture of which national teams may end up competing in Kansas City during the 2026 tournament.
The updated group placements now include some of the world’s most iconic squads — raising excitement among fans and local communities.
Top-tier teams such as Germany, the Netherlands, and Argentina could all take the field in Kansas City based on how the groups were assigned.
While the final match schedule has yet to be confirmed, the draw gives supporters a strong indication of who they may see play in the Midwest.
Fans Celebrate Possibility Of Seeing Elite Players In Kansas City
Local Argentine Community Filled With Excitement
Cristina Worden, an Argentine national and owner of Piropos Restaurant in Briarcliff Village, shared how her phone erupted with messages during the draw.
She recalled opening WhatsApp to find messages from nieces, siblings, and nephews asking if Argentina might be playing in Kansas City — and whether they could stay with her.
Worden said, “Everyone is so thrilled! The excitement is unbelievable.”
Portugal, Ronaldo, And The Knockout Stage Possibilities
Kansas City could also host knockout-round matches featuring Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal, sparking even more fan enthusiasm.
Allan Martins, whose wife is Portuguese, said he would return to Kansas City just to watch Portugal play live. Many fans echoed the same sentiment, noting that the chance to watch global legends in person is “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Dreams Of Hosting Lionel Messi
Worden added a personal dream — to welcome Lionel Messi to her restaurant if Argentina plays in the city. She has been practicing Argentina’s iconic stadium chants in preparation.
“If he came to Piropos,” she said, “it would feel like standing on top of Mount Everest.”
Group Breakdown: Teams Positioned To Play In Kansas City
The draw identified three groups with matches scheduled in Kansas City:
Group E
- Germany
- Curaçao
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Ecuador
Group F
- Netherlands
- Japan
- UEFA Playoff B Winner (one of Ukraine, Sweden, Poland, or Albania)
- Tunisia
Group J
Kansas City will host two matches from this group.
- Argentina (led by Lionel Messi)
- Algeria
- Austria
- Jordan
While these placements do not confirm which teams will officially compete in the city, they significantly narrow down the possibilities.
The final match assignments will be released on Saturday.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final Draw has generated immense excitement in Kansas City, with the possibility of seeing global superstars such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and several powerhouse teams.
Fans, business owners, and local communities are already preparing for what could be a historic moment.
Though the final schedule is still pending, anticipation is at an all-time high as the city awaits confirmation of the matches it will host.
FAQs
Are the teams confirmed to play in Kansas City?
No. The draw only identifies which groups are assigned to Kansas City, but final match schedules will be announced on Saturday.
Could Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo play in Kansas City?
Yes. Based on the draw, both Argentina (Messi) and Portugal (Ronaldo) are in groups that could send them to Kansas City.
How many World Cup matches will Kansas City host?
Kansas City is scheduled to host multiple matches, including two Group J games, but the full schedule will be released soon.