Mexico and Belgium square off at Soldier Field tonight in a high-profile international friendly that doubles as a World Cup tune-up. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. Central, and the lakefront stadium is expected to be buzzing early thanks to a big pregame fan festival on the stadium green.
Where to watch and stream
The match will air on Univision and Fox Deportes and will stream on the Fox Sports App, according to NBC Chicago. That gives Spanish-language viewers multiple ways to tune in on TV or on the go across the U.S. Fans without cable should check the Fox Sports App for streaming availability in their area.
At Soldier Field: gates, parking, and Futbol Fiesta
According to Soldier Field, the match begins at 8:00 p.m., parking lots open at 4:00 p.m., and stadium gates open at 6:00 p.m. The venue will host a free Futbol Fiesta outside Gate 6 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., featuring food, live entertainment, and fan activations. The event listing also notes early box office hours on March 30 and reminds attendees that the NFL clear-bag policy will be enforced at entry.
Form and what's at stake
Mexico arrives in Chicago looking to kickstart its attack. The team was held to a 0-0 draw with Portugal and has produced only a handful of goals in recent friendlies, according to NBC Chicago. Belgium, on the other hand, has been an attacking juggernaut: the Red Devils extended an unbeaten run with a 5-2 win over the United States in Atlanta, a result reported by ESPN, so both squads have a point to make before the World Cup lights get brighter.
What fans should know
Chicago fans heading to Soldier Field should budget extra travel time, since the museum campus and South Loop usually bog down with traffic during major sporting events. Local outlets have been stoking the hype with ticket giveaways, including a contest promoted by B96, which hints at just how high local interest is. If you are skipping the stadium, expect packed sports bars and watch parties in neighborhoods with strong Mexican and European fan bases, from Pilsen and Little Village to pockets of the North Side.
