Your Ultimate Guide to 2026 World Cup Tickets: Experience Brazil at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on July 4th!

Visitors to Philadelphia are in for a treat.

Soccer fans with tickets to the World Cup at Lincoln Financial Field will have the opportunity to watch Brazil, France, and Croatia play. These three nations boast a combined total of nine World Cup titles and have reached the finals 17 times. Additionally, Philadelphia has the unique distinction of hosting a round of 16 knockout match during America’s 250th anniversary, making a trip to Lincoln Financial Field even more appealing.

The stadium will host six matches, featuring five-time champions Brazil as well as Independence Day knockout games.

Opened in 2003, Lincoln Financial Field seats 69,000 and is situated in South Philadelphia, with convenient access to SEPTA’s subway system. As the birthplace of American independence, Philadelphia is a fitting venue for FIFA’s knockout matches during this significant celebration.

If you’re planning on visiting the city, there are some critical considerations: Are the premium prices for Brazilian and French matches justified? How will July 4th affect hotel bookings? What can you expect from SEPTA’s Broad Street Line? And will the iconic Rocky Steps remain a must-do or eventually become optional?

This guide aims to address those questions. For more insights on securing tickets for the FIFA World Cup in 2026, check out soccernews.com, where you’ll find links to all host cities across the U.S.

Lincoln Financial Field: Venue Overview

• Capacity: 69,000 (for World Cup events)
• Location: 1 Lincoln Financial Field Way, Philadelphia, PA 19148
• Opened: 2003
• Cost: £395 million ($512 million in 2003)
• Distance from Center City: 3 miles
• Distance from the airport: 7 miles

This stadium serves as the home for the Philadelphia Eagles. It has already hosted two Super Bowls (in 2005 and 2018) and is a replacement for Veterans Stadium, located in the same South Philadelphia area. Notably, it connects directly to SEPTA’s Broad Street Line at the NRG station.

Soccer History Overview: Lincoln Financial Field has previously hosted the 2003 Women’s World Cup, the 2015 International Champions Cup, the 2016 Copa America Centenario matches, and regularly features CONCACAF Gold Cup games. The venue also hosted the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, demonstrating its capacity to support significant soccer events.

Stadium Design:

• Outdoor venue
• Exposed to weather elements

June and July in Philadelphia typically see temperatures between 75-90°F, with occasional thunderstorms. The stadium prioritizes sightlines over cooling systems, which may appeal to some as a true outdoor soccer experience.

Official Resources:

Complete Match Schedule

*Playoff winner: Iraq, Bolivia, or Suriname (to be finalized in March 2026), Source: FIFA Official Schedule

Highlighted Matches

Brazil vs. Haiti (June 19): The five-time World Cup champions will face Haiti in a much-anticipated match. Brazil’s footballing finesse and the draw of the Selecao will be a significant attraction, while Haiti’s participation shows resilience in the face of adversity. The match’s timing at 9 PM helps accommodate viewership in South America.

France vs. Playoff Winner (June 22): The current champions are a team to watch throughout the tournament, featuring star player Kylian Mbappé. As the opponents will not be confirmed until March, the atmosphere will certainly vary, particularly if Iraq qualifies, energizing Philadelphia’s Middle Eastern community.

Croatia vs. Ghana (June 27): This match will bring together Croatia, a recent World Cup runner-up, and Ghana, a competitive player from Africa. Expect a well-attended event as both teams aim for a strong showing.

July 4th Round of 16: Fall on the same day as America’s 250th anniversary! As teams clash, fans can look forward to exciting matchups, possibly featuring football giants like France or Germany.

Stay updated with the latest match previews and predictions by visiting: this page.

Ticket Pricing: Brazil & France Premium

The lottery for tickets closed on January 13, with results due in February. For those who missed out on official tickets, the secondary market offers some insight.

Official FIFA Prices

Insights on the Secondary Market

For reliable secondary market tickets, check out ticketcenter.com, which currently lists:

• Brazil vs. Haiti: Category 2 seats range from £710-1,065 ($900-$1,350), while Category 1 goes for £1,065-1,577 ($1,350-$2,000).
• France vs. Playoff Winner: Category 2 tickets are priced between £473-710 ($600-900).
• Croatia vs. Ghana: Category 2 tickets cost £315-473 ($400-$600).
• July 4th Round of 16: Category 1 tickets range from £710-1,183 ($900-$1,500), depending on which teams advance.

Accommodation Impact on July 4th

America’s 250th anniversary weekend will see a spike in hotel demand regardless of the World Cup. Expect room rates to rise by 20-30% above normal World Cup prices. It’s advisable to secure refundable accommodations now for that weekend.

Budget Strategies: Attend matches featuring Ivory Coast or Curacao, with tickets ranging from £237-315 ($300-$400) for a more affordable World Cup experience.

Getting to Lincoln Financial Field

SEPTA’s Broad Street Line connects Center City to NRG Station with just a short walk to the stadium. This transit accessibility sets it apart from many sprawling American cities.

SEPTA Broad Street Line (Recommended)

• From Center City: Take the Orange Line south to NRG Station, then a 5-minute walk to the stadium. Travel time is about 15-20 minutes, with a fare of £1.98 ($2.50). Trains run every 8-10 minutes.
• From North Philadelphia: Board the Orange Line to NRG; this takes about 25-30 minutes and costs the same fare.
• Post-match: Trains run until 1 AM on weekdays and 2 AM on weekends, accommodating late-game exits.

More transport details: Check septa.org.

Using Local Railways

From the Suburbs (Chester, Media, Wilmington): Take a local train to Temple University Station, then transfer to the Broad Street Line south to NRG. Fares vary from £3.95 to £7.90 ($5-$10), depending on your zone.

By Ride Share

• Cost: From Center City: £15.80-23.70 ($20-$30); From the Airport: £19.75-27.65 ($25-$35); From University City: £15.80-23.70 ($20-$30); Surge pricing: 2-3 times standard rates;
• Drop-off: near North Entrance Gate A;
• Parking: In shared lots about 10 minutes away.

By Car (Possible, but Not Ideal)

• Parking: Stadium area costs £23.70-39.50 ($30-$50), surrounding areas range from £15.80-27.65 ($20-$35);
• Access: The stadium is near the merge of I-95 and I-76;
• Exit: Expect heavy traffic following games due to maximum capacity of 69,000.

Where to Stay

In Philadelphia, lodging options vary from the bustling Center City to the historic charm of Old Town, the academic vibe of University City, and the upscale atmosphere of Rittenhouse Square.

Center City

• Cost: £158-315 ($200-$400) per night (£197-394 / $250-$500 during the July 4th weekend);
• Broad Street Line: Direct subway access to the stadium, 15-20 minute journey;
• Advantages: Walkable attractions, numerous dining options, vibrant city life;
• Ideal For: First-time visitors seeking central accommodations;
• Hotels: Loews Philadelphia, Kimpton Hotel Monaco, Doubletree;
• Nearby: City Hall, Reading Terminal Market, Rittenhouse Square.

Old City

• Cost: £158-315 ($200-$400) per night;
• Broad Street Line: 10-minute walk to the station, around 20-25 minutes total to the stadium;
• Advantages: Rich colonial history, close to Independence Hall, picturesque cobblestone streets;
• Ideal For: History enthusiasts and fans of colonial architecture;
• Atmosphere: Enjoy the Historic District, Ben Franklin sights, and Liberty Bell.

University City

• Cost: £118-197 ($150-$250) per night;
• Broad Street Line: Requires a transfer or about a 15-minute ride plus connection;
• Advantages: Affordable rates, proximity to the University of Pennsylvania, diverse cuisine;
• Ideal For: Budget-conscious travelers looking for an academic setting;
• Nearby: Drexel University, West Philadelphia.

Rittenhouse Square

• Cost: £237-394 ($300-$500) per night;
• Broad Street Line: About a 15-minute walk to the station;
• Advantages: High-end shopping, fine dining, and a park-like atmosphere;
• Ideal For: Those wanting a more luxurious and quieter urban experience.

The Philadelphia Experience

Philadelphia offers a wealth of attractions beyond the football matches, making it a rich destination for visitors.

Independence National Historical Park

• Liberty Bell: Free to visit, just a five-minute viewing time, offering a backdrop of Independence Hall;
• Independence Hall: Requires a guided tour (free), so it’s recommended to book online in advance;
• Duration: Allocate half a day, ideally visiting in the morning before the heat of the afternoon.

Rocky Steps & Art Museum

• Philadelphia Museum of Art: Home to an impressive collection; pay-what-you-wish on Sundays;
• Rocky Steps: The iconic 72 steps attract tourists eager to run up while posing with the bronze statue;
• Duration: 90 minutes to climb the steps and a quick 3-4 hour museum visit for art lovers.

Reading Terminal Market

• Location: Center City, at 12th Avenue and Arch Street;
• Specialties: Delicious offerings like Amish roast pork and Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine;
• Duration: Spend around two hours exploring—great for breakfast or lunch!

South Street and Italian Market

• South Street: Known for eclectic shops and the famous cheesesteak rivalry at Jim’s Steak and Pat & Geno’s;
• Italian Market: Located on 9th Street, known for authentic Italian goods, fresh produce, and pastries;
• Duration: A total of 2-3 hours to enjoy the area.

Beyond Game Day

• Valley Forge: A historic site 30 miles northwest, ideal for a half-day trip;
• Longwood Gardens: A beautiful garden just 45 minutes west, also best for a half-day visit;
• Gettysburg: 90 miles west, famous for its Civil War battlefield, recommended for a full-day trip.

Dining Recommendations

Philadelphia is renowned for its cheesesteak, which originated in the 1930s, but its culinary scene is much broader.

Cheesesteak (a must-try)

• Pat’s King of Steaks vs. Geno’s Steak: Both tourist favorites that are open 24 hours; don’t forget to order “With Wit” (cheese whiz and onions);
• Cost: £9.48-11.85 ($12-$15);
• Note: It’s a tourist hotspot, but an essential Philly experience;
• Jim’s Steak: A local favorite with shorter lines and higher quality food.

Reading Terminal Market

• Dinic’s Roast Pork: Frequently rated as America’s best sandwich;
• Basset’s Ice Cream: Established in 1861, it’s the oldest ice cream parlor in the country;
• Bailer’s Donuts: Freshly made donuts each day from the Amish community.

Fine Dining

• Zahav: Offers Israeli cuisine with James Beard awards; reservations are recommended months in advance;
• Vetri Cucina: Features an intimate Italian tasting menu, averaging £158-237 ($200-$300) per person;
• Friday, Saturday, Sunday: A modern American bistro experience located in Rittenhouse Square.

Post-Match Options

• Mr. Woodrow: Known for sandwiches and open late;
• Jones: Offers comfort food and a popular weekend brunch;
• Campo’s: Open 24 hours for cheesesteaks in Center City.

Conclusion

Your 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket strategy starts now:

• Is there a lottery? Secure your refundable hotel now, particularly for the July 4th weekend.
• Missed out on tickets? Monitor secondary markets for games like Croatia or Ivory Coast, with minimums of £710-1,065 ($900-$1,350) for Brazil.
• Chasing July 4th? Wait for final matchups to be determined and budget at least £710-1,183 ($900-$1,500).

Philadelphia’s hosting of the World Cup coinciding with the journey of American independence makes it a compelling destination. For soccer fans, the combination of monumental matches—like Brazil and France on our nation’s birthday—offers an extraordinary experience in a historic setting.

We hope to see you at the iconic Rocky Steps; it’s an experience every visitor should have.

FAQs

Did you succeed in getting a ticket?
Confirmation emails will be sent in February for those lucky enough to secure tickets.

Is SEPTA reliable?
Absolutely. The Broad Street Line provides a direct ride from Center City to NRG Station, taking around 15-20 minutes and costing £1.98 ($2.50).

What’s the weather like in June and July?
Expect hot and humid conditions, typically between 24-32 °C (75-90 °F), with 70% humidity. Afternoon storms can occur in June, so be prepared with sunscreen and water.

Free on the 4th of July weekend?
Book your stay now. The 250th Anniversary will lead to higher demand, with a 20-30% increase in prices.

Can the U.S. qualify for the Round of 16 here?
While not guaranteed, it’s theoretically possible if the U.S. secures a win in Group D and gets favorable results in other matches.

How early should I arrive?
For Brazil or France games, 2.5 hours is advisable; other matches need at least 90 minutes, and the July 4th match requires at least 3 hours due to expected crowds.

What’s the stadium’s bag policy?
Only clear bags (12″ x 6″ x 12″) or small clutches (4.5″ x 6.5″) are allowed. No backpacks, large purses, or outside food (except sealed water containers).

Must I climb the Rocky Steps?
Not required, but highly recommended! It takes just five minutes, draws applause from other tourists, and is a fun part of the experience.

Which cheesesteak should I try?
Head to Jim’s Steak for great quality or opt for Pat’s or Geno’s for a full tourist experience. Just be sure to order “With Wit” for the Philadelphia experience!