The Roots to headline pregame show before World Cup match in Philadelphia.
Philadelphia will celebrate one of the biggest matches of the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup with a lineup of hometown talent and award winning performers before fans settle in for Saturday’s Round of 16 clash between France and Paraguay.
FIFA announced Friday that legendary Philadelphia hip hop group The Roots will headline the pregame entertainment at Philadelphia Stadium ahead of the 5 p.m. ET kickoff. The appearance adds another high profile moment to the city’s role as one of the tournament’s host destinations as thousands of soccer fans are expected to gather for the holiday weekend matchup.
The celebration extends beyond the pregame festivities, with music planned before kickoff, during halftime and throughout the fan experience inside and outside the stadium.
The Roots will lead the pregame celebration
The Roots, one of Philadelphia’s most celebrated musical groups, will perform before France and Paraguay take the field for their Round of 16 matchup.
Known for blending hip hop with live instrumentation, the Grammy winning group has remained closely connected to Philadelphia despite decades of international success. Their performance is expected to help energize fans as they arrive for one of the tournament’s most anticipated knockout matches.
The appearance also highlights FIFA’s effort to showcase local culture in each host city by featuring artists with strong ties to the region.
Idina Menzel and the Philadelphia Boys Choir will perform
Before kickoff, Tony Award winning performer Idina Menzel is scheduled to sing the national anthem.
She will be joined by another Philadelphia institution as the Philadelphia Boys Choir and Chorale performs America the Beautiful, adding a ceremonial moment to the day’s festivities before the opening whistle.
The combination of nationally recognized talent and local performers reflects the city’s prominent role in hosting one of soccer’s biggest international events.
DJ Jazzy Jeff takes over halftime
Fans inside Philadelphia Stadium will also be treated to entertainment during the halftime break.
Philadelphia native DJ Jazzy Jeff is scheduled to perform, bringing another hometown favorite to the World Cup stage. The acclaimed DJ and producer has remained one of the city’s most recognizable music ambassadors and will help keep the energy high while players prepare for the second half.
The halftime performance continues FIFA’s emphasis on creating a full entertainment experience that extends beyond the action on the field.
FIFA shares fan safety and entry details
Alongside announcing the entertainment schedule, FIFA also outlined several measures aimed at helping fans stay comfortable during what could be warm July weather.
Cooling tents will be available throughout Philadelphia Stadium, while misting fans will be positioned near the 11th Street entrance to provide relief for people approaching the venue.
Under FIFA’s stadium policy, spectators may bring one factory sealed soft water bottle containing up to 20 ounces into the stadium. Officials said the rule is intended to help fans stay hydrated while maintaining event security standards.
FIFA said it has worked closely with the City of Philadelphia, medical professionals and emergency management officials to prepare for the event and provide a safe environment for everyone attending.
Stadium gates are scheduled to open at 2 p.m., giving spectators several hours to enter the venue, enjoy the pregame festivities and settle into their seats before France and Paraguay begin their quest for a place in the World Cup quarterfinals.
With international soccer, live music and Independence Day weekend celebrations coming together in one of the tournament’s host cities, Saturday’s event is expected to deliver a memorable atmosphere both on and off the field.