Could this be the most patriotic match ever? The USMNT could play on the Fourth of July in Philadelphia for the 2026 FIFA World Cup… on the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence

With the schedule for the 2026 FIFA World Cup already laid out, Americans and soccer fans around the world are getting ready for a magical summer in two years’ time.

While the opening matches in Toronto, Mexico City, and Los Angeles are sure to attract attention – as will the Final held in the New York metro area – there’s one match in the knockout stages that is garnering significant attention.

In the Round of 16, there’s one match in particular that will garner particular attention from Americans for its historical significance that could serve as a celebration if things work out in the occasion’s favor.

Philadelphia is set to host it’s only knockout match on the Fourth of July for that year, setting up a game that would be played on the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

That the game falls on that date and is played in the same city where the document was drafted would only serve to build the momentum and atmosphere in one of America’s most sports-crazed cities.

It could prove to be a monumental game for the USA as it falls on American Independence Day

In fact, the Declaration of Independence was signed in Philadelphia 250 years before the game

Now, there’s no guarantee that the United States will be in the Round of 16 and it’s not clear that FIFA will have the USMNT playing their game here if they make it.

But it’s within the realm of possibility and would be a cause for celebration if it occurred. 

It’s the last of six matches that will be played in Philadelphia, the first match in the Round of 16, and one of two matches taking place on July 4.

In addition to this knockout stage game, five matches in the group stages will be held at Lincoln Financial Field.

The United States will be playing all of their group stage matches on the West Coast of the country.

They play in Match 4, Match 32, and Match 59. The first and third matches will be held at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles – with the match in the middle held in Seattle.