USMNT Returns to Charlotte for Key World Cup Warm-Up
The United States Men's National Team (USMNT) is set to play a friendly match in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at Bank of America Stadium. This fixture, dubbed the 'Allstate Continental Clásico,' is a significant part of the team's preparation for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the U.S. will co-host. The match is scheduled for a 3:30 p.m. ET kickoff and will be broadcast on TNT, HBO Max, Telemundo, Universo, and Peacock.
While the specific opponent for the friendly is yet to be determined, an announcement is anticipated following the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw on December 5, 2025. FIFA regulations prohibit teams drawn into the same World Cup group from playing each other in pre-tournament friendlies.
Bank of America Stadium: A Premier Soccer Venue
Bank of America Stadium, home to the NFL's Carolina Panthers and MLS's Charlotte FC, boasts a seating capacity of approximately 75,037. The stadium has a history of hosting major soccer events, including two matches during the CONMEBOL Copa América USA 2024™. This upcoming friendly marks the second time the USMNT will play at the venue; their first appearance was on July 2, 2023, when they secured a 6-0 victory against Trinidad and Tobago during the Concacaf Gold Cup, drawing an attendance of 40,243 fans.
Charlotte's selection as a host city underscores its growing prominence in the American soccer landscape. Kristi Coleman, CEO of Tepper Sports & Entertainment, highlighted the significance, stating, 'Next year will be the biggest summer of soccer in the history of this country and Charlotte is set to host the U.S. Men's National Team's penultimate friendly ahead of the FIFA World Cup.' The city is also slated to host the 2026 MLS All-Star Game and was included in the bid for the 2031 FIFA Women's World Cup.
USMNT's Road to the 2026 World Cup
The friendly in Charlotte is one of four crucial warm-up matches scheduled for the USMNT in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team's preparation schedule includes:
- Two friendlies in March 2026 against Belgium and Portugal, both to be held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
- A final 'send-off' match on June 6, 2026, against Germany at Soldier Field in Chicago.
These matches are designed to fine-tune the squad following the announcement of the official World Cup roster, with the USMNT's first World Cup game scheduled for June 12, 2026. Tickets for the Charlotte friendly will go on presale starting December 3, 2025, with general public sales beginning December 5, 2025.
5 Comments
Coccinella
Opponent TBD? Hard to get excited without knowing who they're playing.
Bella Ciao
Another friendly that probably won't mean anything. Just a money grab.
Mariposa
Charlotte is truly a rising soccer capital. So proud!
Africa
It's great to see the USMNT prioritizing warm-up matches for the World Cup, ensuring the squad is ready. However, I hope these games are used for genuine tactical experimentation rather than just commercial obligations.
Coccinella
The large stadium capacity is fantastic for accommodating a massive crowd and generating revenue. However, sometimes a slightly smaller, more intimate venue can create an even better atmosphere for a friendly match.