The expanded competition features 48 teams in 12 groups of four, with the top 32 advancing to the knockout phase. Boston’s key fixtures include:
The Haiti-Scotland meeting carries particular weight locally, with large supporter communities expected to gather across the city. Scotland fans have been directed towards venues including The Anchor in Charlestown and The Haven in Jamaica Plain.
The biggest practical issue will be getting supporters home. Reduced commuter rail services are planned on most lines for the next five weeks, while further match-day changes from 13 June will affect every line leaving South Station.
The MBTA is extending evening services on all lines and buses until 2am on match days. After Haiti against Scotland, services are scheduled to run until 4am. That match could therefore become a useful test of whether Boston’s transport plan can handle concentrated late-night demand.
A free Fan Fest is planned at City Hall, with advance registration required. Bars including the Banshee, Dubliner, Phoenix Landing and Parlor Sports are also expected to host screenings.
Temporary rules will allow participating bars to serve alcohol until 3am and operate designated outdoor drinking areas, subject to local approval. The measure runs through 31 July.
Local businesses are joining in too, with World Cup-themed ice cream at J.P. Licks and promotions planned by Chipotle, Luxor Cafe and Faneuil Hall vendors.
The countdown now moves from preparation to delivery. With the tournament opening on 11 June, Boston’s first major test will be whether its transport changes and fan events can match the energy of the fixtures.