Angel Reese and the Atlanta Dream had plenty to celebrate over the weekend after defeating Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever for the second time this WNBA season.
At the same time, Atlanta has become one of the focal points of the FIFA World Cup 2026, particularly after debutants Cape Verde’s historic draw against Spain. So, does Reese plan to catch a match while the World Cup is in town, but more importantly, will she be able to watch the United States men’s national team in action in Atlanta?
Angel Reese Hoping To Watch USMNT Play in Atlanta During FIFA World Cup 2026
Reese made an appearance on ESPN SportsCenter on Monday after becoming the fastest WNBA player to complete 1000 career rebounds (in 79 games) during Saturday’s 113-96 win over the Fever.
The star forward who had joined the Dream during the offseason was asked what it has been like living in Atlanta while the city hosts some of the biggest matches of the FIFA World Cup.
“Yeah, it’s been great,” Reese said. “Obviously, it’s been chaotic. The traffic has been crazy.”
“My teammates were able to go yesterday. I didn’t make it yesterday, but I will plan to make one of the games,” she added.
While Reese has yet to attend a World Cup match, she already knows which team she wants to see.
“Hopefully, I think the U.S. will come here soon, maybe,” Reese said. “But if the U.S. comes here, I definitely want to see them play and go out there and support.”
“It’s really cool to see a different environment, different people coming here just to enjoy sports because I really love sports,” Reese added.
Atlanta has also hosted its share of memorable moments. Cape Verde stunned European champions Spain by earning a draw thanks to the heroics of 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha.
Spain later beat Saudi Arabia 4-0, in a match that saw teenage sensation Lamine Yamal score his first World Cup goal at 18, becoming one of the youngest scorers in tournament history.
During the opening weekend of the World Cup, several Dallas Wings players, including sophomore guard Paige Bueckers, attended Japan’s thrilling 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in Arlington, where a late equalizer denied the Dutch victory. Now, Reese may have to experience that next — but can she actually catch USMNT in action in Atlanta?
Why Angel Reese May Not Be Able to Watch USA Play FIFA World Cup 2026 in Atlanta
As for Reese, seeing the United States play in Atlanta may not be possible.
No USMNT matches are scheduled in Atlanta during the group stage, and ironically, the team’s strong start to the tournament may have all but sealed any chances. The host nation’s back-to-back wins over Paraguay and Australia have put Mauricio Pochettino’s side on course to finish first in Group D.
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Atlanta is scheduled to host a Round of 32 match, a Round of 16 fixture, and a semifinal during the knockouts. However, the current bracket would only send the United States to Atlanta if it finished second in its group and then advanced through the knockout rounds to a potential semifinal clash in the city.
If the USMNT tops Group D as expected, its projected path avoids Atlanta entirely. That means Reese may not be able to support the USMNT in Atlanta, but will have to do it at another stadium.
