LEXINGTON, Ky. — Lexington is inviting residents and soccer fans to gather downtown for a free, family-friendly watch party as the U.S. Men's National Team takes on Bosnia and Herzegovina in a critical FIFA World Cup knockout match.

The community event, sponsored by the city, FOX 56, and the Kentucky Theatre, will take place on July 1 at 8 p.m. at the Kentucky Theatre, 214 E. Main St. Doors open at 7 p.m., and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The event will be held in the adjacent State Theatre, which has a capacity of approximately 350.

"This is a very exciting time for Lexington," Mayor Linda Gorton said. "As we prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, we're also celebrating America's run in the FIFA World Cup. We invite our community to join us to cheer on Team USA!"

The match represents a crucial moment for the U.S. team, which won its group with victories over Paraguay and Australia, though it lost to Türkiye in its final group-stage match. Bosnia and Herzegovina qualified for the knockout stage for the first time in the nation's history, finishing as a third-place team.

Members of the Lexington Sporting Club's soccer teams will attend to meet fans and celebrate Team USA's World Cup run. The club will sell USA-themed merchandise and offer fans a free photo opportunity with its women's championship trophy, won last month when the Lexington SC women defeated Carolina Ascent FC 3-1 in the Gainbridge Super League final.

"The way soccer has captivated Lexington this month has been so much fun, and we're excited to help bring our community together for this critical match," said David Simms, Director of Marketing at Lexington Sporting Club. "Whether you're a lifelong supporter of the game, or tuning in for the very first time, we hope fans from across the Bluegrass join us to cheer on the U.S. Men's National Team and experience the energy of soccer culture."