ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Soccer fans across the country, including Tampa Bay, are preparing for a highly anticipated night as the United States opens its World Cup campaign against Paraguay.
For Bay area supporters looking to experience the excitement with fellow fans, one of the region’s largest watch parties will take place at Al Lang Stadium in downtown St. Petersburg.
Home to the Tampa Bay Rowdies, Al Lang Stadium is no stranger to soccer enthusiasm.
The club is currently enjoying an impressive season, remaining undefeated in league play and sitting atop the standings. Team officials hope that momentum carries into a memorable World Cup viewing experience for fans.
“This is the first time we’ve hosted a World Cup watch party,” said Jeff Attinella, the Rowdies’ Director of Content and Development. “I’ve been kind of recommending that everybody bring a poncho just because there’s probably gonna be beer spilling in the air, water getting thrown everywhere, because we’re expecting the USA to have a good game.”
The event comes during a remarkable 15-match winning streak for the Rowdies, and organizers are hoping to capitalize on the excitement surrounding the world’s biggest soccer tournament.
Gates at Al Lang Stadium are scheduled to open at 7 p.m., with officials encouraging attendees to use nearby parking garages due to limited parking around the venue.
While Al Lang Stadium may host one of the largest gatherings in the area, it is far from the only place where fans will be watching the match. Sports bars and restaurants throughout Tampa Bay are preparing for packed crowds as supporters gather to cheer on their favorite teams.
One popular destination is Mary Margaret’s Irish Pub in downtown St. Petersburg, which has already welcomed international soccer fans during earlier World Cup matches.
“It’s better to be here,” said fan Ana Wolmarans while watching Mexico’s match against South Africa. “You have all the presence, everybody, all the vibe, energy. Downtown St. Pete is a great place to watch games.”
The World Cup remains one of the most popular sporting events on the planet, taking place only once every four years. This year’s tournament is the largest in the competition’s history, featuring 48 teams competing across 104 matches before the championship match on July 19.
Although many analysts view Spain and France among the favorites to lift the trophy, the tournament’s unpredictable nature is part of its appeal. A single victory can spark momentum and launch an unexpected contender on a deep run, creating the drama and excitement that have made the World Cup a global phenomenon.
For Tampa Bay soccer fans, however, the focus tonight is simple: supporting Team USA as its World Cup journey begins.
For many supporters, the World Cup atmosphere extends beyond the action on the field.
“That feeling when you’re at one of your best friend’s weddings and everybody’s there to celebrate one thing and it’s all family, it’s all friends, everybody hasn’t seen each other in forever,” said Jacob Lankford, a fan supporting Colombia. “That’s the exact same feeling when you’re here with the fans from around the world.”