HOUSTON — Hundreds of soccer fans gathered in Houston on Saturday to watch the live FIFA World Cup draw, where officials revealed which national teams could play in the city, the number of matches Houston will host, and the tournament schedule for next summer.
Organizers set up large screens and sound systems for fans to follow the draw in real time. City officials and local host committee representatives provided information on stadium access, transportation, security, and ticketing.
Fans displayed national team apparel, flags, and scarves while vendors sold food and merchandise. Stadium operators and city departments used the event to review operational and safety plans ahead of the seven World Cup matches scheduled in Houston.