New York in Football Fever: La Marseillaise and Football Jerseys Before the France-Senegal Match

New York – 16.06.2026: The streets of New York pulsate to the rhythm of the upcoming Football World Cup. Ahead of the highly anticipated opening match between France and Senegal on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 9:00 PM CEST at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey, the city is festively adorned.

French tricolors wave through the streets of Manhattan, and store windows are decorated with football jerseys of the French national team. Especially in neighborhoods with a large French community, such as the Upper East Side, the excitement is unmistakable. French specialties are offered in cafes and bakeries, and guests engage in lively discussions about the lineup of the “Bleus.”

A highlight of the celebrations is the spontaneous performance of the French national anthem, “La Marseillaise,” on Times Square. A group of musicians and fans gather, and the powerful sounds echo through the streets, accompanied by cheering passersby. This scene shows the deep connection many people in the city feel with the French team.

The French Embassy in the USA has collaborated with the city administration to set up special fan zones where the matches are broadcast on large screens. These zones offer fans the opportunity to celebrate together and watch the games in a lively atmosphere. The fan zone in Bryant Park, in particular, has quickly become a meeting point for football enthusiasts.

The anticipation for today’s match is high. The French team, led by coach Didier Deschamps, faces the Senegalese squad, featuring prominent players such as Sadio Mané and Kalidou Koulibaly. Both teams share a long history in football, and this is the first encounter since the memorable 2002 World Cup match when Senegal surprised France with a 1-0 win.

The encounter promises to be an exciting football celebration that thrills not only fans in New York but around the world. The city, known for its multicultural population, gathers people from various nations today who share their passion for football together.

For those unable to watch the game in the stadium, numerous bars and restaurants in the city offer broadcasts. Some venues have put together special offers and menus in the French style to emphasize the special atmosphere of the match. Tonight, the streets of New York stand as a vivid testament to the global enthusiasm for football and the strong connection between France, Senegal, and the city.