Atlanta will host its inaugural World Cup matches featuring Spain playing two group-stage games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, according to FIFA's schedule. The announcement revealed Spain as the primary draw, though paired with lesser-ranked national teams and early kickoff times set by FIFA.
The match schedule includes Spain versus Cape Verde on June 15 at noon, South Africa against a playoff winner on June 18 at noon, Spain versus Saudi Arabia on June 21 at noon, Morocco versus Haiti on June 24 at 6 p.m., and Uzbekistan against a playoff winner on June 27 at 7:30 p.m. Additional knockout round matches are scheduled for July 1, 7, and 15.
Spain, the 2010 World Cup champions featuring star players Lamine Yamal, Rodri, and Pedri, represents the standout attraction. The team ranks first globally and could potentially play up to five matches in Atlanta depending on group performance and tournament advancement.
Among visiting nations, Morocco at No. 11 in rankings follows Spain as the second-highest rated squad. Other notable teams include Denmark at No. 21 if winning playoffs, followed by Czechia, Uzbekistan, DR Congo, and others. Cape Verde and Uzbekistan will make their World Cup debuts, while Congo hasn't qualified since 1974.
Dallas hosts more prestigious group-stage opponents including Argentina, England, Netherlands, Croatia, Japan, and Austria — all ranked No. 24 or higher with substantial supporter bases.
Source: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
