Thousands of Scottish football fans are set to descend on Miami next week for Scotland's World Cup match against Brazil at Miami Stadium. The game, scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, will kick off at 6pm EST (11pm BST) at what is typically known as Hard Rock Stadium. This encounter marks Scotland's third group-stage match, following their clash with Morocco at Boston Stadium on Friday, June 19.
Miami Prepares for World Cup Buzz
The city is already buzzing with World Cup excitement, highlighted by the 700-foot-tall Paramount Miami Worldcenter illuminated with football displays and a 'Welcome to Miami' sign. However, the arrival of the Tartan Army is expected to elevate the atmosphere significantly. After their spirited celebrations in Boston following Scotland's 1-0 victory over Haiti, fans are likely to bring the same energy to Miami, which is less than a four-hour flight away.
Fan Zones and Viewing Parties
For those unable to secure tickets to the match, numerous venues will offer viewing opportunities. The FIFA Fan Festival Miami at Bayfront Park, a 32-acre waterfront venue, has been transformed into a massive watch party dubbed 'Miami's second stadium.' Running from June 13 to July 5, this free event can accommodate up to 30,000 daily attendees. It features four giant screens, an 8,000-capacity amphitheater, concerts, cultural activities, food booths, mini soccer pitches, and interactive zones like 'Beckham's Back Yard,' where fans can kick a ball with a virtual David Beckham.
Another popular viewing destination is Carousel Club, an open-air venue with a massive LED screen broadcasting all matches, along with food pop-ups and giveaways for World Cup tickets.
Pubs and Bars
Several pubs in Miami are hosting special Scotland watch parties. Mickey Byrne's Irish Pub on Hollywood Boulevard has been dubbed the 'headquarters' for the Tartan Army, featuring pipe bands and Scottish musicians for pre- and post-match celebrations. Mickey Burkes on Miami Beach is also planning a special event. Other options include Grails Wynwood, Miami's top sports bar with over 75 TVs, and Churchill's Pub, offering daily happy hour specials.
Transportation Advice
Fans are urged to use public transport to navigate Miami's heavy traffic. Verified ticket holders for the Scotland vs. Brazil match can access free bus shuttle services from six hub sites in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Buses will run 3.5 hours before kickoff and up to two hours after the match. Key pick-up points include Lot 70 at Hard Rock Hotel, Golden Glades Park & Ride, Brightline Aventura Station, and MLK Metrorail Station in Miami-Dade, as well as West Regional Terminal in Plantation and Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise for Broward County.
