Tonight at 9 p.m., Team USA opens its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Paraguay in a Group D matchup that has the entire city buzzing.
Atlanta is slight favorites to win their group, which also includes Australia and Turkey. The opening match comes after two successful days at the FIFA Fan Festival in Centennial Olympic Park, where thousands gathered to watch Mexico defeat South Africa and enjoy performances from Summer Walker.
Across metro Atlanta, official and unofficial watch parties are set to host fans. Decatur's WatchFest '26 drew packed crowds Thursday night at the freshly renovated town square. The festival will show more than 60 matches through the tournament.
For fans not heading Downtown, dozens of bars, restaurants, and community centers are hosting their own watch parties. The City of Tucker, parts of Norcross, and neighborhoods across DeKalb County have organized viewing events.
Atlanta's first World Cup match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium (temporarily renamed "Atlanta Stadium") is Monday, June 16, when Spain faces Cape Verde. The "Blue Sharks" arrived at Hartsfield-Jackson Friday to massive crowds of supporters.