Mexico, U.S. play World Cup knockout games this week. Where to watch in Fresno
Fresno soccer fans – whether they are Team USA or Team El Tri or both – can show off their team’s jerseys at any of several venues hosting watch parties for the first round of knockouts.
Numerous venues in Fresno have announced watch parties for the Mexico game on Tuesday and the USA game on Wednesday.
Mexico won all three of its World Cup group-stage matches and was the first team to secure its spot in the Round of 32. The U.S. won two of the three games and was the second to qualify for the Round of 32.
Mexico is scheduled to play Ecuador on Tuesday at 6 p.m. in Mexico City Stadium. The U.S. will play Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday at 5 p.m. at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara
Here are World Cup watch parties for Tuesday (Mexico) and Wednesday (USA)
Rainbow Ballroom (1725 Broadway St.)
The downtown venue is hosting its fourth massive free Mexico watch party Tuesday, with doors opening at 5 p.m. for the 6 p.m. kickoff. There will be large-screen TVs, food, drinks, live music and a high-energy crowd of more than 1,000 people showing up for El Tri. You can get free tickets at the Event Mania website. General admission tickets do not include assigned seating and are on a first-come basis. Early arrival is recommended for the best available seating.
Club Encore (3075 N. Maroa Ave.)
The Fresno Mexico Fan Fest watch party on Tuesday is free, for 21 and older, with doors opening at 5 p.m. It features tacos by Guisados Greicy, drinks, live DJ, giant TV screens. Free RSVP is available, and space is limited. Seating and admission are on a first-come basis.
Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant (5088 N. Blackstone Ave.)
The restaurant promises Mexican soccer fans an epic watch party for the Mexico vs. Ecuador match on Tuesday, live at 6 p.m. on its eight screens (indoor and outdoor viewing), with an all-you-can-eat buffet, for $19.99. There will be karaoke before and after the game and drink specials.
Bobby Salazar’s (725 E. Olive Ave.)
The restaurant is hosting Mexico vs. Ecuador watch party Tuesday at 6 p.m. with big screens, food and drink specials.
Tioga-Sequoia Beer Garden (745 Fulton St.)
The beer garden downtown venue will host a Mexico watch party on Tuesday at 6 p.m. featuring food by Garrafa, and a USA watch party on Wednesday at 5 p.m., featuring food by Teppan Grill.
Fresno Indoor Soccer (5075 N. Cedar Ave)
Fresno Indoor will host a watch party for Mexico vs Ecuador Tuesday with doors opening at 4:30 p.m. and game at 6. It will host a USA watch party on Wednesday with doors opening at 3:30 p.m. and kickoff at 5. Both will feature food vendors, music and giveaways including cash, a mystery jersey and sticker packs. No outside food or drink.
Strummer’s (833 E. Fern Ave.)
The popular venue for American Outlaws supporters to watch USA matches will host a party for the USA knockout round game against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday. Doors open at 4:30 pm., with kickoff at 5. All fans welcome, all ages. Standing-room only is expected.
