The 2026 FIFA World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19, hosted jointly across 16 cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico — the first time three nations have co-hosted the tournament. It features 48 teams playing 104 matches over 39 days, up from 32 teams and 64 matches in previous editions.
The final
The tournament culminates with the final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Fun bonus detail: FIFA president Gianni Infantino has confirmed there will be a half-time show at the final, with Coldplay involved — inspired by the NFL’s Super Bowl tradition.
Oranje in Group F
The Netherlands are in Group F alongside Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia. Here are the Dutch fixtures in Dutch time (CEST):
- Sunday 14 June — Netherlands vs Japan: 22:00 (Dallas)
- Saturday 20 June — Netherlands vs Sweden: 19:00 (Houston)
- Friday 26 June — Tunisia vs Netherlands: 01:00 (Kansas City)
The Netherlands have reached the World Cup final three times (1974, 1978, 2010) without ever winning. With a relatively favourable group, there’s real belief this could be their year!
Here’s a list on the best places to watch the games:
O’Casey’s Irish Pub & Restaurant (Noordeinde 140) One of The Hague’s best-loved Irish pubs, O’Casey’s brings genuine warmth and energy to match days. With screens throughout the bar and a crowd that actually cares about the game, it’s the kind of place where a late equaliser gets the whole room on its feet. Book a table in advance — it fills up fast for big fixtures.
The Fiddler (Riviervismarkt 1) A Den Haag institution, The Fiddler is an English-style pub spread across two levels with multiple large screens and locally brewed cask ale on tap. It draws a loyal international crowd and has a long track record of hosting major sporting events. The atmosphere during a big match here is reliably electric.
Sports Café Not Out (Valeriusstraat 18) The most dedicated sports venue on this list. Not Out is built around the game — a large pull-down projector screen, a relaxed neighbourhood feel, and a crowd of genuine football fans. Slightly off the beaten tourist path, it’s a favourite among expats and locals who take their sport seriously.
Voco The Hague by IHG (Kneuterdijk 8) For those who want to watch the World Cup in comfort and style, the bar at Voco The Hague offers a more laid-back alternative to the pub scene. Located in a beautifully restored city-centre building, it’s a good option for smaller groups or anyone who prefers their football with a cocktail rather than a pint of lager.
Café Restaurant Rootz (Grote Marktstraat 14) Right in the heart of the city centre, Rootz is a lively all-day café-bar with over 160 beers on the menu and a warm, bustling atmosphere that suits a big occasion. With its high ceilings and historic interior, it hits a sweet spot between neighbourhood café and proper football venue — the kind of place you settle in for the whole evening.
Sherika Rooplal-Clappers is a contributing writer for The Hague Online, covering culture, lifestyle, and local events. With a passion for storytelling and international perspectives, she highlights the people, places, and experiences that make The Hague a dynamic city.
Check out https://www.fifa.com/ for latest football news
Image: https://pixabay.com/photos/man-cheering-holland-portrait-fan-6319262/