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WHICH MATCHES WILL BE PLAYED IN GUADALAJARA IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
Guadalajara is going all out! The Pearl of the West will be one of the three Mexican cities buzzing with excitement for the 2026 World Cup, and the modern Akron Stadium is ready to welcome thousands of football fans. Although it won't host any of the final stages, Guadalajara will be the venue for three group stage matches, and these are no small feats. This article tells you which matches will be played, which teams will be arriving in Jalisco, how to get tickets, and some juicy details to help you plan your World Cup schedule.
The Akron Stadium: World Cup venue for the second time
The Akron Stadium, home of Chivas Rayadas del Guadalajara, will be one of the three Mexican stadiums selected by FIFA to host matches of the 2026 World Cup, along with the legendary Azteca Stadium (CDMX) and the modern BBVA Stadium (Monterrey). Although it was inaugurated in 2010, it already has World Cup experience: in 2011 it hosted the U-17 World Cup.
Key Features of Akron Stadium
Capacity: 48,071 spectators.
Location: Zapopan, Jalisco, about 10 km from downtown Guadalajara.
Eco-friendly design: green roof that simulates an inverted volcano, and a water harvesting system.
Technology: LED screens, hybrid turf, and interactive zones, with renovations planned for 2026.
The three matches confirmed in Guadalajara
According to the official schedule revealed by FIFA in 2024, Guadalajara will host three group stage matches of the 2026 World Cup. Although the team allocation will be defined after the official draw in 2025, the dates and groups that will play at the Akron Stadium have already been confirmed.
Key dates and projected matches
June 11, 2026 – Group D match (seeded team vs. qualifier).
June 18, 2026 – Group H match (match between two European teams, according to predictions).
June 24, 2026 – Group L Match (South America could be present in this matchup).
These games are part of the expanded group stage of the new format with 48 teams and 12 groups. Each Mexican venue will host three matches, and a rotation of top-level teams is expected to ensure attendance and media visibility.
Could Mexico play in Guadalajara?
Although Mexico will play as the host in the inaugural match at Estadio Azteca, it is not confirmed that they will play again in Guadalajara. However, if they finish first in their group, they could train and prepare for some matches in Jalisco, where they have historically had strong local support.
Interesting facts and the football atmosphere of Guadalajara
Guadalajara is no stranger to the World Cup. It hosted the tournaments in 1970 and 1986, and now it will make history by hosting its third World Cup. The city is a cradle of talent, passion, and football culture, and the atmosphere expected for 2026 is simply spectacular.
Things you probably didn't know
Legendary matches like Brazil vs. Peru (1970) and Germany vs. Morocco (1986) were played in Guadalajara.
The previous stadium, the Jalisco, witnessed Maradona and Pelé at different times.
The Akron Stadium has one of the longest player tunnels in world football.
The city has already been recognized as one of the most hospitable for sports tourism.
In conclusion, Guadalajara is preparing to shine at the 2026 World Cup with three matches that promise intensity, color, and plenty of passion. No matter which teams are playing, the city is ready to welcome them with mariachi, tequila, and an unforgettable goal celebration.
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