Soccer fans in the United States have another reason to clear their schedules — Mexico will take on Serbia in a 2026 international friendly, and it's a matchup that deserves your full attention. Whether you're a die-hard El Tri supporter or simply a fan of quality international football, this is one you won't want to miss.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, every international friendly leading up to the tournament carries extra weight. For Mexico, these matches are critical opportunities to fine-tune tactics, evaluate squad depth, and build chemistry ahead of what promises to be a historic home World Cup. Serbia, meanwhile, is a physically imposing European side with legitimate aspirations of making noise on the world stage — making this a genuinely competitive test for El Tri.
For US-based fans wondering how to catch the action, here's what you need to know:
- Check Spanish-language television options — Mexico friendlies are traditionally broadcast on Spanish-language networks available in the US, so Univision and TUDN are always worth checking first.
- Streaming platforms — Legal streaming options through services tied to those broadcast rights are typically available, allowing cord-cutters to watch on phones, tablets, and smart TVs without missing a kick.
- English-language coverage — Depending on broadcast deals, English-language options may also be available through FS1, Fox Sports, or other cable partners, so check your local listings closer to kickoff.
Why does this matter to American soccer fans specifically? With the World Cup coming to US soil in 2026, Mexico is essentially a co-host nation, and El Tri matches will draw enormous crowds and viewership across the border and throughout the American Southwest. Cities like El Paso — which sits right on the US-Mexico border — have some of the most passionate Mexican soccer supporters anywhere in the country. For El Paso fans, following El Tri is not just a pastime, it's a cultural institution.
Serbia, for their part, bring a squad built around Premier League and European top-flight talent. Watching how Mexico handles that level of European physicality and technical quality will give fans a genuine preview of what El Tri might face in the group stages of a World Cup.
As kickoff approaches, fans are encouraged to confirm broadcast details through their cable or streaming providers, as international friendly schedules and TV rights can shift. Set your reminders, grab your gear, and get ready — Mexico vs Serbia is the kind of friendly that actually feels like it matters.