FIFA World Cup 26 Quarterfinal Headed to Kansas City

Tantalizing possibility of Messi's Argentina vs. Ronaldo's Portugal in quarterfinal match

Jan. 28, 2026 at 5:15pm

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Kansas City will host six games during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including a quarterfinal match scheduled for July 11, 2026. The city is poised to welcome some of the tournament's biggest stars, with Argentina, the Netherlands, and potentially Portugal all slated to play at least one game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. The quarterfinal match could feature a dream showdown between Argentina's Lionel Messi and Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, who are both vying to become the first men to appear in six World Cups.

Why it matters

Kansas City's selection as a host city for the 2026 World Cup represents a major milestone for the region's growing soccer culture. The prospect of a Messi-Ronaldo quarterfinal clash would bring unparalleled global attention and excitement to the city, showcasing its passion for the sport and its ability to host marquee international events.

The details

Argentina, the reigning World Cup champions, and the Netherlands, ranked 7th in the world, are both scheduled to play at least one game in Kansas City. If Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, win their group, they too will have a match in the city. The quarterfinal match on July 11, 2026, could feature a highly anticipated showdown between Messi's Argentina and Ronaldo's Portugal, two of the greatest players in the history of the sport.

  • Argentina will open its World Cup title defense on June 16 at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.
  • The quarterfinal match is scheduled for 8 p.m. on July 11, 2026.

The players

Lionel Messi

Legendary attacking midfielder for the Argentina national team, who is poised to become the first man to appear in six World Cups.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Superstar forward for the Portugal national team, also vying to become the first man to appear in six World Cups.

Argentina

The reigning World Cup champions, ranked 2nd in the world, and heavily favored to win Group J.

Portugal

Ranked 6th in the world, and the prohibitive favorites in Group K, which includes Colombia, Uzbekistan, and one of the Intercontinental Playoff winners.

Netherlands

Ranked 7th in the FIFA Men's World Ranking, and scheduled to play at least one game in Kansas City.

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What they’re saying

“If Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal win their group, they're in line for at least one game in Kansas City as well, giving the BBQ Capital of America and the Soccer Capital of America immense star power from its allotment of games.”

— Tod Palmer, KSHB 41 reporter (kshb.com)

“It's entirely possible — perhaps even likely — that Messi's side and Ronaldo's squad will clash at Arrowhead with a semifinal berth at stake. It's a dream scenario.”

— Tod Palmer, KSHB 41 reporter (kshb.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The prospect of a Messi-Ronaldo quarterfinal clash in Kansas City would bring unparalleled global attention and excitement to the city, showcasing its passion for the sport and its ability to host marquee international events. This game would be one of the most-anticipated in world soccer history, and a testament to Kansas City's growing status as a soccer capital of America.