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Monterrey and Guadalajara Slated to Host World Cup Playoff Tests

Scheduled for March 23–31, the intercontinental repechaje will test venue readiness ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Overview

  • Governor Samuel García confirmed on August 8 that Estadio BBVA will host one of the playoff matches, raising its total World Cup games to five.
  • Estadio Akron in Guadalajara is also designated to stage at least one repechaje fixture under FIFA’s testing plan.
  • The playoff series will feature six teams—two from Concacaf and one each from Conmebol, AFC, CAF and OFC—competing in elimination rounds for the final two tournament berths.
  • FIFA intends to use these matches to assess stadium infrastructure, security protocols and urban mobility under live match conditions.
  • Formal ratification of these venues by FIFA remains pending, with official confirmation expected in the coming months.