Detroit Welcomes Soccer Enthusiasts for USA World Cup Viewing Party

Detroit — The excitement of the World Cup swept through downtown Detroit as soccer aficionados gathered at Campus Martius Park to cheer on the United States in their opening group stage match against Paraguay on a beautiful Friday evening. Although the game was scheduled to kick off at 9 p.m., dedicated fans like Natalie Steel and her father, Steve Steel, arrived over an hour early to secure their spots in front of the big screen.

"I just honestly hope for the USA to win," expressed Natalie, who arrived in a festive outfit complete with star-spangled butterfly wings and a tutu. "It's the group stage, so it could go either way, but I really hope for the USA to win. It would be amazing."

Steve, wearing the jersey of American forward Christian Pulisic, was optimistic about the outcome, predicting a convincing 3-0 victory for the U.S. He emphasized the importance of community support for soccer, stating, "Everyone loves it around the world. It should be huge here. I mean, we're hosting the World Cup, plus Mexico, plus Canada. We really should honestly be here to support the USA team."

The lively watch party was organized by Detroit City FC, the city's professional soccer team, in collaboration with the Downtown Detroit Partnership. Ryan Sanders, a longtime soccer fan, relished the chance to share the experience with fellow supporters. "It's expensive to get out to watch the U.S. matches this time around, unfortunately … So I wanted to come out and get a chance to just be around other people who care about the game," he noted.

Sanders was accompanied by friends, including Clay Phillips, a newer soccer enthusiast who discovered his passion through attending Detroit City FC matches. "Nothing like the energy of a soccer match," Phillips remarked. "What better place to feel that energy than with soccer fans here for the first (2026 World Cup) game in the U.S.?”

Detroit City FC plans to host more free watch parties for both the USA and Mexico games in various venues throughout the city. Fans can look forward to a viewing party for Team USA's upcoming match on June 19 at Campus Martius Park, while the June 25 match will be screened at the Detroit City Fieldhouse, located at 3401 E. Lafayette St. Additionally, watch parties for Team Mexico will take place on June 18 and 24 at Los Galanes, 3362 Bagley St. in Detroit. Attendees are encouraged to register in advance for the USA events and arrive early for the Mexico matches, with food and beverages available for purchase at all locations. For more information, visit www.detcityfc.com/watchparties.