Orlando to Host Brazil, Colombia, Croatia in World Cup Tune-Up Matches

ORLANDO — The City Beautiful may not be among the eleven host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but that hasn't stopped Orlando from positioning itself as a critical hub for international soccer. Camping World Stadium will host two marquee friendlies this March featuring three of the world's most storied national teams: Brazil, Colombia and Croatia.

The announcement, made Thursday by Florida Citrus Sports, confirms that Central Florida will welcome some of the biggest names in world soccer as nations make their final preparations for the summer's World Cup, which the United States will co-host alongside Canada and Mexico.

Colombia Makes History in the City Beautiful

Colombia will face Croatia on Thursday, March 26, with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. ET. The match carries historical significance — it marks the first time the Colombian men's national team will play in Orlando.

Los Cafeteros arrive as one of the hottest teams in international soccer. Led by the creative brilliance of James Rodriguez and the explosive talent of Liverpool winger Luis Diaz, Colombia finished third in the grueling South American World Cup qualifying campaign, trailing only Argentina and Ecuador. The team's passionate style of play and technical skill have made them a favorite among neutrals, and their fan base is among the most devoted in the Western Hemisphere.

This will also be the first-ever meeting between Colombia and Croatia, adding another layer of intrigue to the contest. Two nations with proud footballing traditions will square off for the first time, each looking to establish early momentum ahead of the World Cup.

Brazil Returns to Central Florida

Five days later, on Tuesday, March 31, the five-time World Cup champions take center stage. Brazil will face Croatia at 8 p.m. ET in what promises to be the marquee attraction of the doubleheader.

The Selecao need no introduction. With five World Cup titles — more than any other nation — Brazil remains the gold standard of international soccer. Their attacking flair, technical excellence and winning pedigree have captivated fans for generations, and their return to Central Florida is sure to generate enormous excitement.

Brazil's last visit to Camping World Stadium came in June 2024, when they faced the United States men's national team in a friendly that drew 60,016 fans. The crowd that night was nearly split 50-50 between American and Brazilian supporters, and the atmosphere inside the stadium was electric. Organizers expect similar enthusiasm — if not more — for the Croatia clash in March.

The two nations share a recent and dramatic history. At the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Croatia stunned Brazil in the quarterfinals, prevailing on penalties after a thrilling 1-1 draw that saw both goals come in extra time. The Brazilians will surely have revenge on their minds when they take the pitch in Orlando.

Croatia: The Giant Killers — With a Local Connection

Don't let their small population fool you. Croatia, a nation of fewer than four million people, has established itself as one of the most consistent performers in international soccer over the past three decades.

The Vatreni reached the World Cup final in 2018, falling to France, and followed that with a third-place finish in Qatar in 2022. Their ability to compete with and defeat the sport's traditional powers has earned them respect worldwide.

Croatia's squad is captained by 40-year-old Luka Modric, the 2018 Ballon d'Or winner and one of the most decorated midfielders in the history of the game. Despite his age, Modric continues to perform at the highest level for Real Madrid and remains the heartbeat of the Croatian national team. His presence alone makes these matches must-see events for soccer fans.

Orlando fans will have extra reason to keep an eye on Croatia. Marco Pasalic, Orlando City's second-leading scorer, represents the Croatian national team. Should Pasalic earn a call-up for the March friendlies, Central Florida could have one of its own on the pitch at Camping World Stadium — a special moment for the local soccer community.

No matter what, this is a great event for Orlando and the surrounding region.

A Sea of Yellow at Camping World Stadium

Central Florida is home to sizable Brazilian and Colombian communities, and both populations are expected to turn out in force for the doubleheader. Fans will travel from across the state — from Miami to Jacksonville, Tampa to the Treasure Coast — to support their national teams on this historic occasion.

The atmosphere inside Camping World Stadium promises to be electric. Don't be surprised to see the venue draped in yellow as both Brazil and Colombia sport their iconic bright yellow kits. The passionate supporters of both nations are renowned for their energy, drums, flags and non-stop singing, transforming stadiums into cauldrons of noise and color wherever they play.

Even casual soccer fans will find plenty to appreciate. The matches offer a rare opportunity to watch World Cup-caliber talent in person — players representing elite European clubs like Real Madrid, Liverpool, Barcelona, Manchester City and others will be on display, showcasing the skill and athleticism that make them among the best in the world.

Osceola County: A World-Class Soccer Destination

Don't be surprised if these teams utilize Osceola County's training facilities during their stay in Central Florida. The county boasts some of the best soccer facilities in the world, making it a natural destination for elite international teams preparing for competition.

The region has invested heavily in soccer infrastructure over the years, and that investment continues to pay dividends as more and more high-profile teams recognize Central Florida as an ideal training environment. The combination of world-class facilities, favorable weather and proximity to Orlando's amenities makes Osceola County an attractive option for national teams seeking top-tier preparation.

Get Your Tickets

Tickets for both Orlando matches go on sale Monday, January 13, at 10 a.m. ET. Fans can register for exclusive early access at roadto26.com. Pricing and additional purchasing information will be available through Camping World Stadium and official team channels.

With three World Cup-bound nations descending on Central Florida, demand is expected to be high. Soccer fans in the region would be wise to act quickly to secure their seats for what promises to be an unforgettable week of international competition.

Get your tickets and check out the biggest stars in world soccer. For Central Florida fans, this is the closest thing to hosting the World Cup itself — a golden opportunity to witness elite national teams preparing for the summer's main event, all without leaving home.

Match Schedule:

Thursday, March 26 Colombia vs. Croatia — Camping World Stadium, Orlando — 7:30 p.m. ET

Tuesday, March 31 Brazil vs. Croatia — Camping World Stadium, Orlando — 8 p.m. ET

Tickets: On sale January 13 at 10 a.m. ET at roadto26.com