Regarded as one of the most popular sports in the world, the once-every-four-years FIFA World Cup has arrived, ready to unite the globe. This year's games begin on June 11 and will take place across three countries: Mexico, Canada and the United States.
The 104-match tournament spanning 16 cities opens in Mexico, with the opening game pitting hosts Mexico against South Africa in Mexico City.
In a country where football reigns supreme, the United States will trade that fandom for fútbol by hosting its first World Cup in 23 years, with the last men's games taking place in 1994 and women's in 2003. These decade-long droughts will come to an end with Team USA's first kickoff on June 12 in Los Angeles.
Even though Arizona doesn't have a city among the host names, the state is providing training facilities to the Turkish men's national team. The Arizona Athletic Grounds complex in Mesa serves as the training site for Turkey as it prepares to compete in Group D alongside the United States, Paraguay and Australia.
Beyond hosting the Turkish team, the state seeks to immerse Arizonians in "the beautiful game" through watch parties, local soccer clubs and enthusiastic sports bars.
Team USA Takes the Field in Tempe Marketplace
To celebrate Team USA kicking off the World Cup, Tempe Marketplace will host a watch party on Friday, June 12, beginning at 4 p.m.
The event will be held at The District Stage and feature a viewing of the 4 p.m. pregame show and 6 p.m. match between the United States and Paraguay.
There will be photo opportunities, snacks and beverages, games and giveaways available — and it is open to all ages.
Rising World Cup Watch Parties
The valley's professional soccer team, the Phoenix Rising, is partnering with bars in the metropolitan area to throw watch parties for fans to come together to watch big matches and receive Rising-related giveaways.
Friday, June 12 | The Hot Chick: United States vs. Paraguay at 6 p.m.
Friday, June 19 | The Original Arcadia Tavern: United States vs. Australia at noon
Wednesday, June 24 | The Hot Chick: Mexico vs. Czechia at 6 p.m.
Thursday, June 25 | Tombstone Brewing Company: United States vs. Turkey at 7 p.m.
Sunday, July 19 | Backyard Desert Ridge: Tournament Final at noon
Options available throughout
Here are additional places eager to embrace soccer fans, offering viewing access and game-day deals:
333 E Jefferson St in Phoenix | Crown Public House: access to all matches.
1340 E 8th St in Tempe | Four Peaks Brewing: deals on drinks and access to matches.
4240 N Central Ave in downtown Phoenix | George and Dragon English Pub: access to all matches.
Even though Arizona won't have a host location in the games, the efforts to unite those who share a fandom for the World Cup prove the sport's ability to bring people together.
This story is developing and may be updated.
Edited by Alan Deutschendorf, Natalia Jarrett and Ellis Preston.
Reach the reporter at cjoneil6@asu.edu and follow @cjojournalism on X.
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Char O’Neil is a junior studying sports journalism with a minor in special events management. This is her third semester with The State Press. She has also reported for AZPreps365, Blaze Radio and Phoenix College Basketball.
