USMNT has opponents confirmed for September friendlies ahead of 2026 World Cup

The national soccer teams of Mexico and the United States will continue their preparations for the 2026 World Cup with a series of friendly matches this fall. Following a busy summer schedule that includes the Gold Cup, both nations will engage in crucial tune-up matches aimed at refining their squads and tactical approaches.

In recent preparation cycles, both El Tri and the Stars and Stripes have employed a strategy of facing the same opponents. This coordinated approach aims to streamline logistics and provide a consistent level of competition as both teams gear up for the world’s biggest soccer stage.

September’s opponents: Japan and South Korea

For the upcoming September window, Mexico and the United States will face Japan and South Korea. In Mexico’s case, only one of the venues remains to be finalized.

United States Schedule:

• September 6th | United States vs. South Korea | 5:00 PM ET (Harrison, NJ)
• September 9th | United States vs. Japan | 7:30 PM ET (Columbus, OH)

Mexico Schedule:

• September 6th | Mexico vs. Japan | Oakland, California
• September 9th | Mexico vs. South Korea | Venue TBD

Critical preparation ahead of Gold Cup

These friendlies are just one part of the preparations. Both teams are also gearing up to play at the 2024 Gold Cup.

Prior to the Gold Cup, Mexico and the United States will engage in friendlies against Switzerland and Turkey on June 7th and 10th, respectively. The 2024 Gold Cup competition commences on June 14th, and all eyes will be on the Mexico and the United States.

These upcoming friendlies represent vital opportunities for both Mexico and the United States. These matches will be critical to see how the teams will do going forward to see how they can work as a whole!