The biggest sporting event in the world has started as matches have begun for the FIFA Men’s World Cup in Qatar. The world is watching and that goes for Pittsburgh as well, where a number of bars and establishments are hoping fans come to cheer on their favorite teams, especially the United States.
The U.S. is back in the World Cup after failing to qualify for the last tournament in 2018. This year’s men’s team is filled with young talent, including Pennsylvania native Christian Pulisic, and fans are hopeful for a long run.
The Stars and Stripes kick off the tournament on Monday against Wales at 2 p.m. On Friday, the U.S. will take on England, and then finish up group play against Iran on Nov. 29. If the U.S. finishes in the top two in their group, they would advance to the knockout stages.
Several bars across Pittsburgh are having watch parties for team USA. Here is where to cheer on your favorite team.
James Cafe, 2550 Smallman St., Strip District — This coffee shop and restaurant is bullish on soccer and is streaming every World Cup match it can during its operating hours between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. this week.
Mike’s Beer Bar, 110 Federal St., North Side — Probably the best place to watch as many World Cup games as possible. The bar across from PNC Park is open at 8 a.m. for the next two weeks to showcase as many matches as possible. Mike’s is also serving breakfast to hungry soccer fans.
Hofbrauhaus Pittsburgh, 2705 S. Water St., South Side — This large venue serving German beer and fare has long been a hotbed of World Cup activity. Germany plays at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, so don’t count on the restaurant being open that early, but there are dozens of other games to watch among the German music.
Mullaney’s Harp and Fiddle Irish Pub, 2329 Penn Ave., Strip District — Ireland isn’t in the World Cup this year, but a local Irish Pub is hoping soccer fans will come down for a pint and some matches. The pub is even opening on its normal off day Monday to welcome fans in the U.S.-Wales game.
Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Highmark Stadium, 510 W Station Square Dr., Station Square — Pittsburgh’s professional soccer team is hosting the largest World Cup watch party in the area for the USA-England game on Friday. More than 3,500 guests have already RSVP’d and the event will also include appearances from local mascots Iceburgh, the Pirate Parrot, the Pierogies, as well as a raffle giving away sports memorabilia, vacations and game tickets. Gates open at 1 p.m. on Friday for the 2 p.m. match time.
Trace Brewing, 4312 Main St., Bloomfield — The popular craft brewery is inviting fans to cheer on the U.S. during its three group stage games. Trace is projecting all U.S. matches on its 110-inch big screen with audio, starting with the 2 p.m. match on Monday.
World Cup: We'll be screening all three FIRST ROUND matches of @USMNT group play.
— Trace Brewing (@TraceBrewing) November 21, 2022
Today is US v Wales (2pm kickoff). pic.twitter.com/iZA0xGWRR1
Voodoo Brewing Co., 337 North Shore Drive, North Side — Watch parties all week starting on Tuesday at craft beer space on Pittsburgh’s North Shore. The brewery is hosting watch parties for games at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, including the U.S.-England match.
