Photo by Vienna Reyes on Unsplash
Three stars on the shirt. Messi, 38 years old at kickoff — turning 39 on June 24, the day of Match 2 in Dallas against Austria — approaching what is widely considered his final World Cup. Scaloni's squad hardened by Qatar, by the Copa América, by the Finalissima. And a draw that has handed the Albiceleste a US base camp spanning two football-mad cities — Kansas City and Dallas — with a knockout path that runs through Miami, Atlanta, and ends, conceivably, at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey on July 19. For Argentine fans, World Cup 2026 is different to any that came before it. Not just because it is the biggest (104 matches, 16 cities, 48 nations) but because the stakes around the fourth star carry a meaning that transcends the football. The 1978 and 1986 generations already had their moments. Qatar 2022 gave Messi his. What 2026 offers is the chance to confirm Argentina — definitively, historically — as one of the great national football dynasties. Four titles. Equal with Germany and Italy. Second only to Brazil. Getting there requires a plan. Argentine fans need a US visa, which means navigating FIFA PASS before the appointment queues fill. They need flights, which means booking before June 2026 fares become impossible. They need base camps in Kansas City and Dallas, transport strategies for two very different stadiums, and a budget that accounts for the full knockout campaign if the team delivers what its history suggests it can. This guide covers all of it — in the order you need to act. Start with the visa. Everything else follows. For the full World Cup 2026 schedule and all 104 match dates, see our [complete schedule and fixtures guide](/blog/world-cup-2026-complete-schedule-fixtures). For ticket availability and prices, visit our [ticket sale dates guide](/blog/world-cup-2026-ticket-sale-dates).
Argentina's 1978, 1986, and 2022 World Cup victories each happened in different eras, different continents, different generations. The 2026 squad — a mix of the 2022 champions plus a wave of emerging talent — arrives as defending champions for the first time since 1990. Only Brazil (5) has more World Cup titles. A fourth would equal Germany and Italy and cement Argentina's place as the defining international football nation of the modern era.
Source: FIFA World Cup official records
Argentina's Full World Cup 2026 Match Schedule — Group J
Argentina's three group stage matches are confirmed across two US host cities — one match in Kansas City, two in Dallas. All matches are played in the USA. No travel to Canada or Mexico is required for the group stage.
The Kansas City Match: Argentina vs. Algeria (June 16)
Algeria arrived at the 2026 World Cup on the back of a strong AFCON campaign and a qualification run that demonstrated genuine tactical discipline. But this is the fixture that every Albiceleste fan will point to as Match 1: the opener, the first time defending champions set foot on a World Cup pitch, Messi in the USA at 38 years old. Kansas City will be overwhelmingly Argentina that night. GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium — home of the Kansas City Chiefs NFL franchise, with a capacity of 76,416 — is already known as one of the loudest stadiums in America. With tens of thousands of Argentine and Algerian fans packed inside, the June 16 atmosphere will be extraordinary. Kansas City's Argentine diaspora community has been organising for months, and the city's compact Power and Light entertainment district creates a natural pre- and post-match gathering point 10 minutes from the stadium.
- Kick-off: 9pm ET / 10pm Buenos Aires time — perfect for watching live from Argentina if you cannot travel
- Stadium capacity: 76,416 (GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium) — may be slightly reduced for FIFA field configuration
- Kansas City airport: Kansas City International (MCI) — approximately 16 miles from Arrowhead
- Argentina historical record vs Algeria: one previous meeting — a 4-3 friendly win in 2007
- Messi confirmed: targeting a sixth World Cup appearance, having extended his Inter Miami contract through 2028
The Dallas Double-Header: Matches 2 & 3 (June 22 & June 27)
Dallas is where Argentina consolidates. Two matches at AT&T Stadium — which will operate under the FIFA commercial name 'Dallas Stadium' during the tournament, the largest venue at World Cup 2026 at 92,967 capacity — give Argentine fans a genuine stadium base for the best part of a week. The June 22 afternoon kick-off against Austria (1pm ET) and the June 27 evening decider against Jordan (10pm ET) create a natural Dallas camp of 5–6 days. A notable detail for Argentine fans: Match 2 on June 22 falls two days before Messi's 39th birthday on June 24. If Argentina deliver a convincing win over Austria in Arlington, the celebrations across Dallas that weekend will take on a particular meaning. AT&T Stadium in Arlington is one of the most spectacular football venues in North America — a covered, air-conditioned indoor stadium with a retractable roof, perfect for Texas summer heat. Argentina has never played a competitive World Cup match in this stadium. The scale will be unlike anything Argentine fans have experienced outside the Monumental. See our full [AT&T Stadium parking and transport guide](/blog/world-cup-2026-att-stadium-parking-transport) for the complete Dallas match day logistics breakdown.
- Match 2 kick-off: 1pm ET — afternoon match in a covered, air-conditioned 92,967-seat venue
- Match 3 kick-off: 10pm ET — late evening, potentially a de facto final group match if positions are already settled
- AT&T Stadium capacity: 92,967 (largest venue at World Cup 2026; expanded FIFA seating may reach ~94,000)
- Stadium has retractable roof and full air-conditioning — Texas heat is not a factor inside this venue
- World Cup branding: AT&T Stadium is referred to as 'Dallas Stadium' during World Cup 2026 per FIFA naming rights rules
- Arlington is 20 miles from Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW) — no direct public transport; plan transfer in advance
- Messi's 39th birthday: June 24 — two days after Match 2 vs Austria in Dallas
| Match | Date | Kick-off (ET / ARG) | Venue | City | Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Match 1: Argentina vs. Algeria | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 9:00pm ET / 10:00pm ARG | GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium | Kansas City, Missouri | Group J — Matchday 1 |
| Match 2: Argentina vs. Austria | Monday, June 22, 2026 | 1:00pm ET / 2:00pm ARG | AT&T Stadium (aka Dallas Stadium for World Cup) | Arlington (Dallas), Texas | Group J — Matchday 2 |
| Match 3: Jordan vs. Argentina | Saturday, June 27, 2026 | 10:00pm ET / 11:00pm ARG | AT&T Stadium (aka Dallas Stadium for World Cup) | Arlington (Dallas), Texas | Group J — Matchday 3 |
💡 12-Day Argentine Camp: Kansas City (June 14–18) → Dallas (June 20–28)
For fans attending all three matches, the natural itinerary is 4–5 days in Kansas City around Match 1, then a short domestic flight or 8-hour drive to Dallas for the 5-day double-header. The Kansas City to Dallas domestic flight takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes — American Airlines, Southwest, and United all serve both cities. Book this connector flight immediately when you book your transatlantic flights.
Photo by Agus Dietrich on Unsplash
FIFA PASS Visa: The Most Urgent Action for Every Argentine Fan
Argentina is not on the US Visa Waiver Program. Every Argentine citizen — without exception — needs a valid B1/B2 US tourist visa to enter the United States for World Cup 2026. Without FIFA PASS, current interview wait times at the US Embassy Buenos Aires can exceed 200 days. The tournament starts June 11. If you are reading this in early 2026 without a US visa, acting in the next 48–72 hours is not an overstatement.
What FIFA PASS Is and How It Works
FIFA PASS — the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System — is a joint programme between FIFA and the US Department of State, announced at the White House in late 2025. It gives fans who purchased official World Cup tickets directly from fifa.com/tickets priority access to visa interview appointment slots at US embassies and consulates worldwide. The key distinction: FIFA PASS is a scheduling tool, not a visa guarantee. You still go through the full B1/B2 interview process, still need to demonstrate ties to Argentina, and still receive normal security vetting. What FIFA PASS changes is when you get your interview — moving you from the standard queue (200+ day wait in many Argentine cities) into a priority lane with slots available much closer to the tournament.
- What it is: priority visa interview scheduling for World Cup ticket holders — not a visa itself
- Who qualifies: fans who purchased tickets directly at fifa.com/tickets and opted in via their FIFA account
- Does NOT apply to: tickets purchased from unofficial resellers or third-party platforms
- Does NOT guarantee approval: standard B1/B2 interview, security check, and tie-to-home-country assessment still required
- Argentina eligibility: confirmed — Argentina is NOT on the US government's expanded travel restrictions list
Step-by-Step: How Argentine Fans Apply via FIFA PASS
The exact process for Argentine nationals applying for a US B1/B2 visa via FIFA PASS:
- Step 1: Ensure your World Cup ticket was purchased at fifa.com/tickets with your legal name matching your Argentine DNI or passport. Tickets from any other source do not qualify.
- Step 2: Log into your FIFA.com account at fifa.com/tickets and submit the FIFA PASS opt-in form. Wait at least 1 hour before attempting to schedule your visa appointment — the systems need time to sync.
- Step 3: Go to ceac.state.gov/genniv and complete the DS-160 online visa application form. Use your legal name EXACTLY as it appears on your passport. Upload a current photo and pay the B1/B2 visa application fee (currently approximately USD $185).
- Step 4: Go to ais.usvisa-info.com/es-ar/niv and create an account. Link your DS-160 confirmation code to your account. When scheduling your interview, select 'US Embassy Buenos Aires' (Avenida Colombia 4300, Palermo) as your location. Answer 'YES' when asked if you are a FIFA ticket holder — this triggers your FIFA PASS priority appointment access.
- Step 5: At your interview, bring your current valid Argentine passport, previous passports containing any US visa, your DS-160 confirmation page, proof of your World Cup ticket, and documents demonstrating strong ties to Argentina: employment contract, property title, family residence, bank statements. The consular officer will assess your intent to return to Argentina after the tournament.
- Step 6: If approved, your visa will typically be affixed to your passport within 5–10 business days after the interview. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity beyond your planned return date from the USA.
US Embassy Buenos Aires — What Argentine Fans Need to Know
The US Embassy in Buenos Aires has published specific guidance for World Cup 2026 applicants at ar.usembassy.gov/fifa-world-cup-2026. This page includes the current appointment scheduling link, required documents list, and FAQ specific to Argentine applicants. For Argentine fans in cities other than Buenos Aires — Córdoba, Rosario, Mendoza, and other major cities — the Buenos Aires Embassy is the primary consular post for Argentina. There is no other US consulate in Argentina for non-immigrant visa processing. Factor in travel to Buenos Aires for your interview date when planning your application timeline.
- US Embassy Buenos Aires address: Avenida Colombia 4300, Palermo, CABA
- World Cup 2026 visa page: ar.usembassy.gov/fifa-world-cup-2026
- Appointment portal (for Argentine applicants): ais.usvisa-info.com/es-ar/niv
- Visa application fee: approximately USD $185 (MRV fee) — payable online before interview scheduling
- Only one US consular post in Argentina — fans from provincial cities must travel to Buenos Aires for their interview
- Processing time after interview: typically 5–10 business days if approved
⚠️ FIFA PASS Priority Slots Are First Come, First Served — Act Today
As of February 2026, FIFA PASS is live and appointment slots are being claimed by hundreds of thousands of ticket holders across South America. There is no second chance at a priority slot once the queue fills. If you have a ticket and have not yet activated FIFA PASS and scheduled your DS-160 interview, do it today — not this week, not when you have time. Every day of delay is a day closer to the tournament with a longer wait for the remaining slots. Go to fifa.com/tickets → FIFA PASS opt-in. Then ceac.state.gov/genniv for the DS-160. Then ais.usvisa-info.com/es-ar/niv for the interview.
Getting to the USA: EZE Flight Corridors for Argentine Fans
Argentina has exceptionally strong direct air connections to the two World Cup host cities — and the announcement of a brand-new route is the most significant air travel development for Argentine fans planning the trip.
The New Direct Route: Aerolíneas Argentinas EZE → Kansas City (MCI)
This is the biggest logistical development in the Argentine World Cup 2026 travel story: Aerolíneas Argentinas has announced a new direct service from Buenos Aires Ezeiza (EZE) to Kansas City International Airport (MCI), launching in June 2026 — timed explicitly for the tournament. This is a previously non-existent route. No airline has ever operated regular direct service between Buenos Aires and Kansas City. The flight takes approximately 10–12 hours, arriving directly in Match 1's host city. For Argentine fans attending the June 16 Argentina vs. Algeria match, this removes the Miami connection or Dallas-then-drive strategy entirely. Book this route as early as possible. A brand-new seasonal route to coincide with one of the highest-demand travel windows in history will sell out. Check Aerolíneas Argentinas' official website and app for availability, and cross-reference with Expedia and Skyscanner for codeshare availability via SkyTeam partners.
- Route: EZE (Ezeiza, Buenos Aires) → MCI (Kansas City International Airport)
- Operator: Aerolíneas Argentinas (AR) — SkyTeam alliance
- Launch date: June 2026 — seasonal, tournament-specific service
- Estimated flight time: ~10–12 hours direct
- MCI to GEHA Field at Arrowhead: 16 miles — approximately 25 minutes by rideshare or pre-booked transfer
- Important: this is a new, unproven route — book refundable or with travel insurance in case of schedule changes
EZE → Miami (MIA): The Established Corridor
Buenos Aires to Miami is the most established EZE–USA route. Aerolíneas Argentinas operates daily flights, with American Airlines and LATAM also serving the route. Round-trip fares on this route start at approximately $600–$800 in off-peak periods — expect $1,200–$1,800+ for June 2026 dates given World Cup demand. Miami is not a direct match city for Argentina's group stage — but it is one of the most important connecting points to both Kansas City and Dallas, and it becomes critically important if Argentina win Group J: the Round of 32 match for Group J winners is at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, on July 3. Fans who route through Miami for their group stage trip may find themselves ideally positioned for the first knockout match.
- Route: EZE → MIA — operated by Aerolíneas Argentinas, American Airlines, and LATAM
- Frequency: daily flights, multiple operators
- Approximate pre-tournament fares: $600–$800 (rising sharply for June 2026 dates)
- Miami connections to Kansas City: ~3.5 hours — American Airlines, Southwest, Delta all serve MCI from MIA
- Miami connections to Dallas: ~3 hours — American Airlines, Southwest
- Strategic value: Hard Rock Stadium (capacity 67,518) hosts Argentina's R32 if they win Group J — fans routing through Miami may not need to go far
EZE → Dallas (DFW) and Other US Direct Options
American Airlines operates direct flights from EZE to Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) — making Dallas the only host city with a direct connection from Buenos Aires for Match 2 and Match 3 fans who want to fly directly into their match city. Flight time is approximately 11 hours. Aerolíneas Argentinas also operates seasonal flights to DFW — confirm availability for June 2026 on their website. Delta operates EZE to Atlanta (ATL), and United operates EZE to Houston (IAH) — both have frequent domestic connections to Dallas (approximately 2-hour flight or 3.5-hour drive for Dallas from Houston). For the full knockout run — particularly if Argentina reach the semi-final at AT&T Stadium (Dallas, July 14) — being based in Dallas for much of June and early July makes strategic sense.
- EZE → DFW direct: American Airlines (year-round) and Aerolíneas Argentinas (seasonal) — ~11 hours
- EZE → ATL: Delta Air Lines (year-round) — connect to Dallas or Miami via Atlanta for ~2 hours
- EZE → IAH (Houston): United Airlines — 3.5-hour drive or 2-hour flight from Houston to Dallas
- SkyTeam note: Aerolíneas Argentinas is a SkyTeam member — Delta partner for US domestic connections. Aerolíneas miles earn and redeem across the SkyTeam network.
💡 Book Flights Before March 2026 — June Fares Are Already Rising
From our experience tracking international airfares for World Cup travel, EZE–USA routes for mid-June 2026 have already started to climb. The window between 'elevated but manageable' and 'extremely expensive' closes fast once the tournament is weeks away. If your visa timeline permits, book flights as soon as the visa is in hand. If you are still waiting for your visa interview, search Expedia for refundable rates you can hold without losing money if plans change.
Kiwi.com specialises in multi-city and open-jaw routes — exactly the EZE → MCI (Kansas City) + MCI → DFW (Dallas) structure Argentine fans need for this trip. Search once, compare fares across all carriers including Aerolíneas Argentinas and American Airlines. Book before March 2026 — June fares from Buenos Aires are already rising.
Photo by Justin Clark on Unsplash
Kansas City Base Camp: Argentina's Match 1 City
Kansas City is where the World Cup journey begins for Argentina — and for the Albiceleste travelling fan, it turns out to be an excellent base. Compact, affordable, with an incredible food scene and a sporting culture built around passion. Kansas City will feel familiar to Argentine fans in ways that LA or New York might not.
Why Kansas City Works as an Argentine Base Camp
Kansas City has several qualities that make it ideal as the first stop on an Argentine World Cup trip. The city is compact — the Power and Light entertainment district (bars, restaurants, live music, outdoor screens) is a 10–15 minute rideshare from Arrowhead Stadium and within walking distance of most downtown hotels. Accommodation prices are meaningfully lower than Miami, Los Angeles, or New York — a decent 3-star hotel runs $150–$220 per night compared to $350–$500+ in Miami. The city is already organising itself around the Argentina match. Kansas City's World Cup preparation has been thorough — GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium is hosting six total matches across the tournament (including a Round of 32 on approximately July 3 and a Quarter-final on approximately July 11), meaning the city is investing heavily in the fan experience.
- Downtown hotel prices: $150–$220/night for quality 3-star within 5km of stadium area (compared to $350–$500+ in Miami)
- Argentine community: Kansas City has an established Latin American community that has been building towards the tournament for months
- Power and Light District: main fan gathering zone, 10-minute rideshare from Arrowhead — pre- and post-match atmosphere will be concentrated here
- Best stay duration: arrive June 14 or 15; depart for Dallas June 17 or 18 (connects naturally with the June 22 Dallas match)
- Arrowhead Stadium hosts 6 World Cup matches total — Argentina's group opener plus 1 R32 and 1 QF
Argentina vs Algeria Match Day in Kansas City: Logistics
GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium has no direct public transport from Kansas City International Airport (MCI) or from downtown. This is a car-dependent venue — for Argentine fans arriving by air, a pre-booked private transfer from MCI is the cleanest option (25–35 minutes, fixed price, no post-match surge). For fans staying downtown, a rideshare from the Power and Light District to the stadium on match day costs approximately $15–$25 inbound. Post-match surge pricing is significant — $45–$80 is realistic. Many fans walk away from the stadium for 15 minutes before requesting a rideshare, which reduces both wait time and fare.
- Stadium capacity: 76,416 (GEHA Field at Arrowhead) — may be slightly reduced for FIFA field configuration; expect near-capacity for Argentina's match
- MCI to stadium: 16 miles — approximately 25–35 minutes by rideshare or pre-booked transfer
- Downtown Kansas City to stadium: ~10 miles — approximately 20 minutes by rideshare ($15–$25 inbound, $40–$70 post-match surge)
- Gates open: typically 2.5–3 hours before kick-off — arrive early for the 9pm ET match; security queues build fast
- Bag policy: standard FIFA — no bags larger than A4 paper size, clear bags strongly recommended. Check FIFA.com for World Cup 2026 amendments.
- Kansas City Fan Festival: FIFA Fan Festival Kansas City confirmed — check kansascityfwc26.com for dates and location
Kansas City International Airport is 16 miles from GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. A pre-booked Kiwitaxi transfer gives you a fixed price with no post-match surge — driver waiting on arrival, no app hunt at midnight after Argentina win 3–0.
Dallas/Arlington Match Day Logistics: AT&T Stadium
Two Argentina matches at AT&T Stadium make Dallas the dominant fixture city for Argentine fans at World Cup 2026. The stadium is spectacular — 92,967 capacity (the largest at the tournament), fully enclosed, retractable roof, immense video screens — but the logistics require specific preparation. Note: AT&T Stadium will be referred to as 'Dallas Stadium' under FIFA's commercial naming rights rules during the tournament.
Getting to AT&T Stadium from Dallas and DFW Airport
AT&T Stadium is in Arlington — halfway between Dallas and Fort Worth, approximately 20 miles from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and 20 miles from downtown Dallas. There is no direct public transport from either city or the airport. The Trinity Railway Express (TRE) connects Fort Worth and Dallas through to CentrePort/DFW station, from where World Cup 2026 official shuttle buses are expected to run to the stadium — confirm this service at FIFA.com as match dates approach. For most Argentine fans, a pre-booked private transfer from DFW Airport to the stadium or hotel is the most reliable option. From downtown Dallas hotels, rideshare inbound takes 25–35 minutes in normal traffic — allow 60+ minutes on match day. See our full [AT&T Stadium parking and transport guide](/blog/world-cup-2026-att-stadium-parking-transport) for every parking lot tier, pricing, and post-match exit strategy.
- DFW Airport to AT&T Stadium: ~20 miles — pre-booked transfer recommended (25–40 min normal traffic; 60+ min match day)
- Dallas Love Field (DAL) to AT&T Stadium: ~28 miles — similar considerations
- TRE train option: DFW airport station → CentrePort → shuttle bus to stadium [VERIFY shuttle service at FIFA.com for World Cup 2026]
- Dallas hotel to stadium rideshare: $25–$40 inbound; $60–$100 post-match surge — walk away 10 minutes before requesting
- On-site parking: large pre-purchase lots available at AT&T Stadium — best for groups with a car; book through official World Cup parking portal
Argentine Fan Culture in Dallas: Where to Gather
Dallas has a large and growing Argentine and Latin American community — particularly in the Uptown, Knox/Henderson, and Addison neighbourhoods. For Match 2 (June 22, 1pm ET), the afternoon kick-off makes a pre-match gathering in one of Uptown's Argentine-friendly bars a natural gathering point before heading to Arlington. For Match 3 (June 27, 10pm ET), the late-evening kick-off means most Argentine fans will want to be near the stadium well before kick-off — the drive or rideshare from Dallas in the evening adds time. Stay closer to Arlington on the June 27 match day rather than travelling back from Dallas city centre.
- Uptown Dallas: best concentration of Latin American restaurants and bars — Greenville Avenue and Henderson Avenue corridors
- Match 2 (June 22, 1pm ET): morning in Dallas, depart for Arlington by 10:30am to arrive 2.5 hours before kick-off
- Match 3 (June 27, 10pm ET): late-night match — stay in Arlington or Grand Prairie that night; post-match will be 1–2am
- Fans attending both Dallas matches: strongly recommend staying in Arlington or nearby for June 26–28 to eliminate the daily commute to the stadium
- Messi's birthday weekend: June 22 match + June 24 birthday = plan celebrations in Dallas/Arlington that week
🚗 Pre-Book Your Dallas Transfer — Match Day Surge Is Real
Rideshare surge pricing on AT&T Stadium match days will be aggressive for Argentina fixtures — $80–$120 post-match is realistic for the 20-mile Dallas journey. A pre-booked Kiwitaxi transfer fixes your price at booking. Driver waiting, no surge, no hunting for a car at midnight after Match 3.
Pre-Book Your DFW Airport → AT&T Stadium Transfer →Between Match 2 (June 22) and Match 3 (June 27), Argentine fans have 5 days in the Dallas area. GetYourGuide has Dallas day trips, stadium tours, Fort Worth experiences, and pre-match guided city tours — all bookable in advance with free cancellation.
Accommodation Strategy: Book Kansas City and Dallas Now
Hotels near AT&T Stadium (Arlington, Grand Prairie, Irving) and downtown Kansas City for World Cup match weeks are already at elevated occupancy. For groups of 3–4 fans, a whole apartment via Vrbo is often cheaper per head than hotel rooms — and gives you a kitchen, living room, and a place to watch TyC Sports after the match.
Argentina's Knockout Stage Path: From Miami to the Fourth Star
The group stage is only three matches. For Argentine fans with the budget, determination, and visa to follow the team all the way to New Jersey, the knockout path matters as much as the group games. Here is what the bracket tells us about where Argentina's World Cup 2026 could go.
Round of 32: Miami (Group J Winners) or Los Angeles (Group J Runners-Up)
Argentina's Round of 32 destination is determined entirely by their Group J finish: If Argentina WIN Group J: Round of 32 at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami on July 3 (6pm ET). Miami is a 3-hour flight from Dallas — Argentine fans completing the June 27 match in Dallas have six days to reach Miami, making a Miami base of 3–4 days perfectly manageable. If Argentina FINISH SECOND in Group J: Match at SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles on July 2 against the winner of Group H. Los Angeles is a 3.5-hour flight from Dallas. The LA match is one day earlier than the Miami match, making the logistics slightly tighter but still very manageable from Dallas. Either scenario creates a natural South Florida or Southern California extension to the group stage trip — both great cities to spend several days in regardless of the football.
- Group J Winners: R32 — Hard Rock Stadium, Miami — July 3, 6pm ET (capacity 67,518)
- Group J Runners-up: R32 — SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles — July 2
- Dallas (Match 3, June 27) → Miami: ~3 hours flight; ~$120–$250 advance domestic fare
- Dallas (Match 3, June 27) → Los Angeles: ~3.5 hours flight; ~$130–$270 advance domestic fare
- Miami hotel strategy: book free-cancellation rooms for July 1–4 in Miami now; cancel if Argentina finish second
Round of 16, Quarter-Final, and Semi-Finals
The bracket beyond the Round of 32 is determined by tournament progression, but the confirmed knockout venues for Argentina's potential path give fans a roadmap to plan against. Quarter-finals are confirmed for: Los Angeles (July 10), Boston (July 9), Kansas City (July 11), and Miami (July 11). Semi-finals at AT&T Stadium, Dallas (July 14) and Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta (July 15). The possible path for an Argentine semi-final appearance at AT&T Stadium in Dallas would represent an extraordinary symmetry — a team that spent its group stage in Dallas, returning to the same venue to contest a semi-final. The Final is at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey on July 19.
- Quarter-finals: LA (July 10), Boston (July 9), Kansas City (July 11), Miami (July 11)
- Semi-finals: AT&T Stadium, Dallas (July 14) and Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta (July 15)
- Third Place Play-off: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami (July 18)
- THE FINAL: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ — July 19 (3pm ET / 4pm ARG)
The Fourth Star: Planning for the Final
MetLife Stadium on July 19. The largest World Cup Final in history, in the New York metropolitan area. If Argentina reach the Final, they play in the biggest market, most culturally global city in the USA — a city that has the largest Argentine diaspora population in North America. New York-area accommodation for July 17–20 will be among the most competed-for hotel rooms in the world on those dates. We recommend booking refundable hotel rooms in Manhattan, Jersey City, Newark, or Hoboken for the Final weekend now — then cancelling if Argentina do not make it. The cost of holding three nights at a refundable rate is zero. The cost of trying to find accommodation when Argentina are in the World Cup Final is enormous. Category 1 Final tickets are priced at $2,735. Category 3 is $735. Category 2 is $1,235. The official FIFA resale exchange is the only legitimate secondary market if primary sales have closed — see our [World Cup 2026 last minute tickets guide](/blog/world-cup-2026-how-to-buy-tickets-guide) for how the resale exchange works.
- Final: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ — July 19, 3pm ET / 4pm Buenos Aires time
- Stadium capacity: 87,157 — the largest stadium hosting World Cup 2026 matches
- Tickets: $735 (Category 3) to $2,735 (Category 1) — official FIFA resale exchange only
- Accommodation strategy: book refundable New York / Newark / Jersey City hotels for July 17–20 now at zero cancellation cost
- Getting to MetLife: NJ Transit match-day special trains from Newark Penn Station — approximately 30–40 minutes from Newark airport
Pre-Book Free-Cancellation Rooms for Every Knockout City — Right Now
Zero-cost knockout strategy: hold free-cancellation rooms in Miami (July 1–4, Argentina R32), Newark/New York (July 17–20, Final weekend). Cancel the rooms Argentina do not reach. You pay nothing until arrival — but rooms are guaranteed at today's prices. By the time Argentina are confirmed in a semi-final, those rooms are gone.
Budget Reality Check: The Cheapest Way to Follow Argentina at World Cup 2026
World Cup trips from Argentina to the USA are not cheap. But there is a significant gap between the minimum viable budget and the premium experience — and understanding where that gap lies is what separates fans who make the trip from fans who watch from Buenos Aires.
Hub-and-Spoke Strategy: The Smart Budget Framework
The most cost-effective approach to following Argentina at World Cup 2026 is the hub-and-spoke strategy: pick one host city as your base for multiple nights, and make single-day or overnight trips to adjacent stadiums rather than moving your entire accommodation base for every match. For Argentina's group stage, Dallas is the natural hub — two matches at AT&T Stadium make it the anchor, with Kansas City as a 3-night spoke for Match 1. Staying in Dallas for 8–10 nights while treating the Kansas City match as a 2-night trip (fly in, stay one night, fly back) is cheaper than relocating your entire accommodation base three times.
- Dallas as the hub: 8–10 nights, two Argentina matches (June 22 and June 27) — book early for best rates near Uptown or Arlington
- Kansas City as the spoke: 2–3 nights only around June 16 — fly Dallas–Kansas City return for approximately $120–$200
- Miami spoke (if R32 winner): 3 nights for July 1–4 — route via Miami on your return journey to Argentina to reduce the internal flight cost
- Accommodation cost saving: hub-and-spoke vs. full relocation typically saves $400–$800 per person across 14 nights
Cost of the Dream: Following Argentina to the Final
If Argentina make it all the way — and they very well might — the cost of following them to MetLife Stadium is real but quantifiable. From our experience tracking World Cup fan spending across three tournaments, the fans who make it to the Final from Argentina typically spend $10,000–$18,000 per person on the full trip (flights, 5 cities, accommodation, tickets for all rounds). The cost can be managed by: planning domestic US flights and hotels well in advance (prices triple in the weeks before a Final); sharing accommodation with a group of 3–4 fans; choosing Category 3 seats for group stage and early knockouts; and using the official FIFA resale platform rather than unofficial channels for last-minute ticket access. For the budget-conscious fan committed only to the group stage, $2,800–$3,400 per person is achievable from Buenos Aires — see the table above for the breakdown.
- Key cost driver: number of rounds attended — each knockout round adds $1,500–$4,000 per person (ticket + hotel + domestic flight)
- Biggest saving opportunity: book domestic US flights early — Dallas to Miami to New York in June–July costs $80–$180 advance vs. $400–$600 last minute
- Group sharing: 3 or 4 fans sharing accommodation reduces the per-night hotel cost by 50–70%
- The Final ticket alone: $735 (Category 3) to $2,735 (Category 1) — plan for this from day one if the full run is the goal
| Budget Tier | Flights (EZE-USA) | Accommodation (14 nights) | 3 Group Stage Tickets (Category 3) | Daily Expenses | Insurance | Total Per Person |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable — shared room, Category 3 tickets | $900–$1,100 | $600–$840 (shared / hostel) | $390 (3 × $130) | $840 (14 days × $60) | $80 | $2,810–$3,250 |
| Mid-range — own room, Category 2 tickets | $1,100–$1,400 | $1,540–$2,100 (3-star hotel solo) | $630 (3 × $210) | $1,120 (14 days × $80) | $120 | $4,510–$5,370 |
| Full knockout run (group stage + R32 + QF + SF + Final) | $1,200–$1,600 + $500–$800 domestic | $3,500–$5,600 (30+ nights total) | $5,000–$12,000 (all rounds, Cat 3) | $2,400–$3,600 (30 days) | $160 | $12,760–$23,760 |
🛡️ Protect the Investment — Travel Insurance Is Non-Negotiable from Argentina
A World Cup trip from Buenos Aires involves significant non-refundable spend: transatlantic flights, US visa fees, match tickets, hotels across multiple cities. A single medical emergency in the USA without coverage can cost $50,000–$200,000. VisitorsCoverage covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, flight disruption, and baggage — a 3-week USA policy from Argentina typically costs $80–$160.
The Complete Argentine Fan's World Cup 2026 Action Checklist
This checklist runs in the order things must happen — each step is a dependency for the ones that follow. Do not skip ahead. Work through sequentially.
The Fourth Star: Plant This Thought Now, Revisit It in July
Here is the number that Argentine fans should hold in mind from the moment the tournament begins: four. Brazil has five World Cup titles. Germany and Italy have four. Argentina, at three, sit alongside France — talented, successful, but one short of the group that defines the all-time great nations of world football. Messi won his title in 2022. But a single title, with a single player at the centre of everything, has always carried a different weight than a dynasty. Four titles over five decades — four different squads, four different tournaments, four different continents — is what turns a great national team into an institution. Argentina in 2026 travel with defending champion status, a squad that has not been broken up despite Qatar's legacy, and a manager in Scaloni who has never lost a World Cup qualifying campaign. They do not need Messi to score every goal or make every decision at 38 — they need the team he built around himself to keep functioning once he steps back from its centre. Kansas City on June 16. Dallas on June 22 and June 27. Miami or Los Angeles in the first week of July. And then, perhaps, MetLife Stadium on July 19, with a fourth star waiting. That is the trip. That is what this planning is for. Now go book the ticket.
Argentina World Cup 2026 Travel — Frequently Asked Questions
La Cuarta. The Plan Is Here. The Trip Is Yours to Make.
Every Argentine fan who makes it to a World Cup 2026 match — whether it is June 16 in Kansas City or July 19 in New Jersey — will carry that memory for the rest of their life. The logistics are real, the costs are significant, and the visa process requires urgency. But the path is clear. Buy the ticket. Activate FIFA PASS. Get the visa. Book the flights on the new direct Aerolíneas Buenos Aires–Kansas City route. Build the Kansas City and Dallas base camps. Hold the Miami and New York rooms on free cancellation. And then go watch the Albiceleste try to do what only four nations in history have ever done twice in succession — win back-to-back World Cups. The fourth star is not a fantasy. It is a destination. The full planning resources are all here.
Stay connected across all 16 host cities — no roaming fees
Attending matches in multiple cities? An eSIM lets you activate local data before you land with no physical SIM swap required. Airalo covers 200+ countries with instant digital delivery.
63% Off NordVPN — World Cup Travel Deal
Fan zones, airports, and stadium concourses run shared public Wi-Fi — the same networks scammers use to intercept ticket logins, banking apps, and travel accounts. NordVPN encrypts your connection instantly. New signups currently get up to 63% off + 3 extra months free. Takes 2 minutes to set up before your trip.