MetLife pitch plays host to youth soccer players

A recent event held at MetLife Stadium built anticipation for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 , while also offering youth soccer players the chance to play the same pitch as Lionel Messi .

The FIFA World Cup 26 New York New Jersey Host Committee held a youth soccer game July 10 for hundreds of area players at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. The event took place hours after the Copa America 2024 semi-final match between Argentina and Canada.

Participating organizations included:

• U.S. Soccer Foundation Just Ball



• NJ Youth Soccer Association



• U.S. Youth Soccer TOPSoccer



• MLS GO



• YMCA of Greater New York



• the NJ YMCA State Alliance



• New York Red Bulls



• New York City FC



• NJ/NY Gotham FC



• And more

 

During the event, young players participated in dynamic soccer clinics on the pitch, which was laid specifically for Copa America 2024. It offered youngsters a glimpse into the future, as World Cup 26 preparations continue in earnest. MetLife will, of course, host the World Cup 26 Final along with seven other matches.

It's also the latest example of building anticipation in New Jersey for the world’s largest sporting event. Now less than two years away, activity has ratcheted up on a slew of fronts in recent weeks and months.

“The lasting legacy of the FIFA World Cup 2026 will span far beyond the games as we work to ensure that this once-in-a-lifetime experience is enjoyed by generations throughout the next two years,” said Gov. Phil Murphy. “This youth soccer event is just one example of how we will cultivate an inclusive and engaging experience for the region’s youngest soccer fans.”

Hitting goals

Lauren LaRusso and Bruce Revman, co-host city managers of the Host Committee, said this day reflected all the organization and the region strives for: diversity, access, inclusion and growing the game of soccer.

“We are committed to using the FIFA World Cup 2026 to engage with as many people as possible in the lead up and leave a lasting legacy for the local communities,” said LaRusso and Revman in a joint statement.

The event was part of the Host Committee and U.S. Soccer Foundation’s larger partnership. The foundation serves as Legacy Strategy Partner, focused on accelerating efforts to create safe places to play and engage the two states in soccer by 2026. The organizations are working together to design and implement programs using soccer to achieve positive outcomes for youth living in underserved communities around the region.

“Events like today’s celebration are integral to ensuring that large scale events leave a positive and lasting impact for youth, especially those from under-resourced communities,” said Ed Foster-Simeon, president and CEO, U.S. Soccer Foundation . “This is just the beginning of much more to come to ensure that we use the beautiful game to strengthen communities and improve the health and well-being of youth leading up to and after the FIFA World Cup 2026.”

The result was a positive experience for the participants and organizations involved.

Positive feedback

“Moments like this help grow the game at the youth level by fostering young soccer fans’ love for the sport, inspiring them to continue playing soccer, and building excitement around the sport ahead of the arrival of the FIFA World Cup to the United States in 2026.”

Kyle Albrecht , vice president, MLS Go

“The New York Red Bulls are proud to have the most dynamic youth soccer programming in the country which includes over 40,000 participants. As MLS continues its growth in popularity and the anticipation of FIFA World Cup 2026 keeps building, the importance of integrating and introducing our communities to the beautiful game becomes more important than ever.”

Marc de Grandpre , president, New York Red Bulls

“Newark YMCA day campers participating in the youth soccer day will showcase their passion for the game, develop essential skills, and have FUN. Thank you to FIFA World Cup 2026 NYNJ Host Committee for exposing our youth to such a wonderful experience.”

Michael Bright , president and CEO, Newark YMCA

“The Raritan Bay Area YMCA is honored to participate in the NYNJ Community Youth Soccer Day at MetLife Stadium. Thank you to the FIFA World Cup New York New Jersey Host Committee for including our campers and creating an unforgettable experience for them!”

Steve Jobin , president and CEO, Raritan Bay Area YMCA

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