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Saudi Arabia, Uruguay Draw 1-1 at Miami Opener, Traffic Delays

6/17/2026

31 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

World Cup Opener

The June 15, 2026 World Cup opener in Miami saw Saudi Arabia and Uruguay draw 1-1 before 62,764 spectators.
FIFA said many empty seats in the first half resulted from late arrivals after a major traffic accident on Florida’s turnpike.
Ticket prices on StubHub ranged from $417 to $8,637, while SeatGeek listings spanned $427 to $10,490.
Referees wore bright pink “flamingo” shirts to honor Miami, a detail highlighted by FIFA.

Summary

Miami Bars Host

Bagatelle Miami River will host a July 19 watch party with a big screen, food and DJs.
Ball & Chain on Calle Ocho will broadcast matches June 12-July 19 on LED screens with DJs, dancers and mojitos.
Batch Gastropub will hold a June 11 party and a Brazil-themed watch party on June 13 with Michelob Ultra and Hard Rock Bet.
Tidal Cove water park in Aventura will offer viewings, themed food and free snow cones when Team USA scores.

History

Historical Context

After FIFA awarded the 1994 World Cup to the United States on July 4 1988, the tournament ran June 17–July 17, 1994, drawing a record 3,587,538 spectators (?68,991 per match). Hosted in nine U.S. cities, it featured the first indoor game and the first final decided by penalties, where Brazil claimed its fourth title.

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World Cup Opener

The June 15, 2026 World Cup opener in Miami saw Saudi Arabia and Uruguay draw 1-1 before 62,764 spectators.
FIFA said many empty seats in the first half resulted from late arrivals after a major traffic accident on Florida’s turnpike.
Ticket prices on StubHub ranged from $417 to $8,637, while SeatGeek listings spanned $427 to $10,490.
Referees wore bright pink “flamingo” shirts to honor Miami, a detail highlighted by FIFA.

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