The excitement for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is ramping up, but there’s a twist that’s leaving some Bay Area soccer fans feeling a bit deflated. The official schedule has landed, and while Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara is set to host six matches, Northern California will miss out on seeing the star-studded Argentine team, including the one and only Lionel Messi.
Fear not, however, because there’s still a golden ticket waiting for the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT). If they manage to win their group, they could find themselves playing right at home in the Bay Area—how fitting would that be? Fans are hoping for some local drama and excitement, especially after discovering that Argentina’s matches will be held at other venues like Kansas City and Dallas.
So, as the countdown to the tournament ticks down, let’s keep our spirits high and our hopes up. Who knows? The thrill of watching the USMNT in action on familiar turf might just give the fans the soccer fix they’re looking for. Let’s just hope they bring their A-game—because who doesn’t love a good underdog story?
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Andrew Johnson
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