ATLANTA, May 13, 2025 — The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) will ramp up preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with two high-profile friendlies in September against Asian powerhouses Korea Republic and Japan. These matchups come at a pivotal moment on the Road to 2026, with excitement growing as the U.S. gears up to co-host the most anticipated tournament in global football.
September Schedule: Korea in New Jersey, Japan in Historic Columbus
Inspired by our players.
— U.S. Soccer (@ussoccer) May 13, 2025
Worn by our fans.
Designed by Nike.
Be the first to represent: https://t.co/wsdSbt09Zf pic.twitter.com/IKXXJQTJrb
The journey begins on Friday, September 6, when the USMNT welcomes Korea Republic to Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, home of the New York Red Bulls. The match kicks off at 5:00 p.m. ET, with live coverage on TNT, Telemundo, Max, Universo, and Peacock.
Three days later, on Monday, September 9, the U.S. hosts Japan at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio. Set for a 7:30 p.m. ET kickoff, the match — presented by Allstate — will mark nearly 25 years since the USMNT’s historic first appearance in the city, solidifying its legacy as a fortress for American soccer. Broadcasts will be available on TNT, Max, Universo, and Peacock.
A Look at the Opponents
Japan, ranked No. 15 by FIFA, was the first team to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and has made it to the Round of 16 in the last two editions. Known for their pace, tactical discipline, and rising international stars, the Samurai Blue will provide a formidable test for Gregg Berhalter’s squad.
Korea Republic, a perennial World Cup participant, is also expected to qualify for the tournament. Their dynamic style, led by global icon Son Heung-min (Tottenham Hotspur), mirrors the type of opposition the USMNT could face in 2026.
Ticket Info
Tickets for both matches go on public sale on Friday, May 16 at 10:00 a.m. ET via the U.S. Soccer website.
Presale access starts on Wednesday, May 14 at 10:00 a.m. local venue time, running until Friday morning.
Members of the U.S. Soccer Development Fund’s Circle can access VIP concierge services by contacting [email protected].
Broadcast and Radio Coverage
Mauricio Pochettino: no reprueba la actitud de #USMNT #Cnl #pochettino pic.twitter.com/UCCF98wK2j
— Fútbol Mundial (@futbolmundial) March 24, 2025
The matches will receive full bilingual coverage:
- TV (English & Spanish): TNT, Telemundo, Max, Universo, Peacock
- Radio: Westwood One Sports (English) and Fútbol de Primera (Spanish)
Fans can follow all updates through official U.S. Soccer social channels:
@USMNT on X, Instagram, Facebook, and the U.S. Soccer App.
September USMNT Match Calendar
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Time (ET) | Broadcast Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sept. 6, 2025 | Korea Republic | Sports Illustrated Stadium, NJ | 5:00 PM | TNT, Telemundo, Max, Universo, Peacock |
| Sept. 9, 2025 | Japan | Lower.com Field, OH | 7:30 PM | TNT, Max, Universo, Peacock |
These matches promise to deliver intensity, elite talent, and a taste of what’s to come in 2026. With tickets available soon, fans are encouraged to secure their seats early and support the Stars and Stripes on their home turf.
