Lionel Messi, Argentina Schedule Matches at CFB Stadiums Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi and Argentina are bringing their preparations for the 2026 World Cup stateside.

According to Paul Tenorio of The Athletic, the defending World Cup champions will play their final two pre-World Cup friendlies at two of the United States' most iconic college football stadiums when they meet Honduras on June 6 at Texas A&M's Kyle Field in College Station, Texas, before taking on Iceland on June 9 at Auburn's Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Alabama.

The game between Argentina and Iceland will be the first international soccer game held at Jordan-Hare in the 87-year history of the stadium.

"To have the reigning FIFA World Cup champions choose Auburn as the site of their last match before defending their title represents a tremendous achievement and an incredible opportunity for Auburn Athletics and Auburn University," Auburn athletic director John Cohen said in a statement. "This match will bring worldwide attention and exposure to Auburn and our community."

Kyle Field had previously hosted a game between Mexico and Brazil in June 2024 in front of an announced crowd of 85,249.

"We look forward to seeing international soccer return to Kyle Field, especially ahead of the World Cup this summer," Texas A&M athletic director Trev Alberts said in a statement. "This is a very exciting time for soccer across the world as well as in the state of Texas. It will be a great opportunity to welcome fans from all over to our campus and one of the most elite venues in college sports. We are always looking to advance the brand of Texas A&M to grow its established global reach and impact. We know hosting these kinds of events emphasizes that strategy and allows us to continue expanding our footprint."

Messi played a preseason friendly at the Cotton Bowl in 2024, and he's also sold out multiple NFL stadiums such as Arrowhead Stadium, Gillette Stadium and Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Tickets for Argentina's last two pre-World Cup friendlies will go on sale next Wednesday, with pre-sale access already available.