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As a die-hard Georgia Bulldog fan, here’s my take on that USA Today coaches rankings list — with some serious Dawg pride injected.
Look, I’ll admit it: seeing Curt Cignetti slotted at No. 1 stings a little. The guy just won a national title with Indiana after turning around James Madison. Fair play — that’s an incredible run, 27-2 in two years at IU with a dominant playoff run. He’s playing Nick Saban realness right now.
NCAA Top 25 Head Coaches
But let’s be real: Kirby Smart built what he has over years at a blue-blood program, not jumping ship for flashier gigs. Cignetti earned the top spot this offseason, but we’ll see how long that lasts when the real games start.
Our guy Kirby Smart comes in at No. 2 (down from 1), and honestly, that’s still elite company. The article nails it: he doesn’t “rule with the same authority” as a few years ago, but he’s still head and shoulders above almost everyone. Three of the last four SEC titles? Check. Elite recruiting, player development, and retention even in the wild west of the transfer portal? Check. Georgia remains a perennial contender built to last. That’s not luck — that’s Smart’s program. We’ve got the talent, the scheme, and the culture to compete for it all again this year. No. 2? We’ll take it as motivation. Kirby’s got that Dawg in him.0
The rest of the list has some head-scratchers, but from Athens, a few stand out:
- Ryan Day at No. 3 (Ohio State): Solid, but we know how that rivalry goes. He finally got over some humps, but we’ll see him in the SEC/Big Ten crossover soon enough.
- Marcus Freeman (Notre Dame), Dan Lanning (Oregon), etc.: Young guns on the rise. Respect, but none have Kirby’s sustained excellence at this level.
- Lane Kiffin at No. 6 (now at LSU): Always entertaining, master recruiter and QB whisperer. Good luck in Baton Rouge — we’ll enjoy facing that chaos in the SEC.
- Lower down: Sark, DeBoer, Dabo — all talented, but Georgia’s been stacking SEC hardware while some of them chase consistency.
Overall, the list reflects a sport in flux with portal madness, coaching carousel drama, and new conference alignments. But for us Georgia fans? This just fires us up more. Kirby Smart is the gold standard — two-time national champ, SEC powerhouse architect, and the guy who keeps delivering. Cignetti had his moment, but the Dawgs are loaded and hungry for more rings.
Go Dawgs — 2026 is going to be fun. Sic ’em!
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The beloved Midtown Southern institution, located at 224 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, opened in 1945 by Mary MacKenzie.
It has expanded into a 13,000-square-foot space serving classic comfort food favorites. Until now, it operated on a walk-in-only basis, but strong demand has prompted this change while preserving its welcoming vibe.
Mary Mac’s Tea Room Now Taking Reservations for the First Time in its History
The restaurant will reserve only about 20% of its capacity across its six dining rooms, keeping most tables available for walk-ins. As the restaurant noted: “While we always welcome walk-in guests, this new option gives diners the confidence of having a reserved table while preserving the warm Southern hospitality that has made Mary Mac’s Tea Room ‘Atlanta’s Dining Room’ a beloved Atlanta institution for generations.”
You can now book tables via the restaurant’s website: marymacs.com/reservation.
Other Midtown Atlanta Restaurants That Accept Reservations
Midtown offers many options that take reservations, often through platforms like OpenTable or Resy (or directly on their sites). Here are some popular ones based on recent recommendations:
- Lyla Lila (693 Peachtree St NE) — Casual-elegant spot known for excellent pasta (like crispy duck lasagna), crudo, and wood-grilled fish. Reservations encouraged.16
- El Valle (800 Peachtree St NE) — Fine-dining Mexican with standout dishes like halibut ceviche, octopus quesadilla, and a strong wine/cocktail list. Reservations encouraged.
- Ecco Midtown (40 7th St NE) — Longtime favorite for Italian-inspired dishes, happy hour, and date nights (also has locations elsewhere). Reservations encouraged.16
- South City Kitchen Midtown (Crescent Avenue) — Refined Southern cuisine in a charming bungalow setting, great for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
- 5Church Midtown (1197 Peachtree Street NE) — New American with rooftop bar vibes; book via Resy for smaller parties.
- Saints + Council (Colony Square, 1221 Peachtree Street) — Fine dining spot in Colony Square; reservations available (cashless).
- Midtown Social Restaurant & Bar (West Midtown area) — Elevated dining with brunch, lunch, and dinner options; book online or by phone.
Other strong mentions from Midtown guides include Nan Thai Fine Dining, spots in Colony Square’s Politan Row food hall, and Brasserie Margot at Four Seasons for French-inspired fare.
For the latest availability, check OpenTable or Resy and search “Midtown Atlanta,” as options rotate with seasons and popularity. Many places recommend booking ahead, especially for weekends or events near Piedmont Park, the Fox Theatre, or the Arts Center. Enjoy your meal in one of Atlanta’s most vibrant neighborhoods!
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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ATLANTA — Local children’s educational toy company Brown Toy Box is set to become a vibrant new addition to the South Downtown Atlanta community, the company’s founder announced this week. The move highlights how location can be just as critical as innovation for a business focused on serving families.
Terri-Nichelle Bradley, founder and CEO of Brown Toy Box, shared the news on LinkedIn, noting that safety, strong community ties, and accessibility are essential for the company’s long-term growth and its mission to spark curiosity in young minds.
AtlantaFi.com interviewed Bradley in 2021 when her company first debuted Brown Toy Box.
Brown Toy Box Expands to South Downtown Atlanta, Emphasizing Community and Curiosity
“Sometimes, just as important as the ‘what’ you’re building, is the ‘where’ you build,” Bradley wrote.
Brown Toy Box, which launched in 2017, creates inclusive STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) toys, kits, books, puzzles, and experiences designed to celebrate culture and representation — particularly for Black children. The company has served thousands of families through partnerships, award-winning products, and its existing downtown Atlanta flagship store at 61 Forsyth Street NW, which opened in 2025.
The upcoming relocation to South Downtown represents a significant next step. Bradley described the new space as more than a retail store — envisioning it as a “fun-filled educational experience and community third space” where families can discover, build, create, and imagine. “We’re designing a place where every corner invites exploration, every product starts a conversation, and every visit feels like stepping into a new Discovery World,” she said.
The company aims to scale this model as a blueprint for future locations, with an emphasis on solving the challenge of inspiring more children to see themselves as future engineers, artists, scientists, and inventors. “We believe the future belongs to the curious,” Bradley added. “And we’re building a place worthy of them.”
South Downtown Atlanta leaders and community members have welcomed the announcement warmly, with early reactions praising the addition as a boost for family-friendly vibrancy in the area. The new store is expected to open later this year.
Brown Toy Box has earned recognition for its impact, including features in Inc. Magazine and partnerships that have placed its products in major retailers. The company continues to advocate for equity in play and education while growing its footprint in its hometown.
Atlanta families can look forward to a welcoming destination that turns shopping trips into lasting memories of discovery and joy. Keep an eye on Brown Toy Box for updates on the grand opening and upcoming community events in South Downtown.
For more information, visit browntoybox.com.
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Atlanta, GA – Pokémon GO fans across the metro area have something exciting to look forward to this weekend. On Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., The Battery Atlanta will host a free Pokémon GO Fest celebration open to trainers of all experience levels.
The event promises a full day of community, competition, and classic Pokémon GO fun right in the heart of the city. Organizers invite players to connect with fellow trainers, explore the venue, and dive into special in-game activities designed for everyone from casual walkers to dedicated raiders.
What to Expect at Pokémon GO Fest 2026
- Interactive Activities & Community Vibes: Trainers can participate in hands-on experiences, join group challenges, and mingle with the local Pokémon GO community. The Battery Atlanta’s vibrant outdoor setting provides the perfect backdrop for catching Pokémon while socializing.
- Special Giveaways: Attendees will have chances to win exclusive merchandise, in-game items, and other Pokémon-themed prizes throughout the day.
- Epic Raid Battles: A highlight of the event will be Mega Mewtwo Raid Battles. Trainers are encouraged to team up and take on this powerful Mega Pokémon.
- Featured Pokémon Encounters: Throughout the day, players can look forward to increased spawns and special encounters with featured Pokémon, making every spin of a PokéStop and every step around the venue potentially rewarding.
Whether you’re a longtime player hunting for rare shinies or a newcomer just getting started, the free event offers an accessible and welcoming atmosphere to enjoy the game in person with others who share the same passion.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Location: The Battery Atlanta
- Cost: Free and open to the public
No ticket is required, but trainers should come prepared with charged phones, comfortable shoes, and plenty of Poké Balls. Staying hydrated and wearing sunscreen is also recommended for a full day outdoors in mid-July Atlanta weather.
This local celebration is part of the broader excitement surrounding Pokémon GO’s ongoing events in 2026, giving Atlanta-area players a chance to experience the game’s social side while enjoying one of the city’s premier entertainment districts.
Got questions or planning to attend? Drop a comment below or tag your fellow trainers on social media with #POGOFest2026ATL. See you out there, Trainers!
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ATLANTA — Organizers of the FIFA Fan Festival Atlanta have announced extended operating hours for the event’s final two days in response to overwhelming fan demand during the FIFA World Cup 2026™. More than 453,000 fans from around the world have already visited Centennial Olympic Park over the first 16 days, turning the historic site into one of the tournament’s most vibrant gathering spots.
FIFA Fan Festival Atlanta Extends Hours for Final Two Days
The festival, hosted by the City of Atlanta and the Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA), will remain open later than usual on Tuesday, July 14, and Wednesday, July 15, to celebrate the World Cup semifinals and provide a memorable send-off.
Extended Schedule and Highlights
- Tuesday, July 14 (Semifinal Eve Celebration): Open from 1 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Fans can enjoy live match programming, entertainment, food, and cultural activities throughout the afternoon and evening. Atlanta native Ludacris will perform ahead of the first semifinal, followed by post-match celebrations with additional live entertainment and special guests. - Wednesday, July 15 (Closing Celebration): Open from noon to 10:30 p.m.
The day will feature viewing of the second semifinal on the park’s massive screens. At 6 p.m., the festival will transition into its official closing celebration, complete with entertainment, special guests, tributes to Atlanta’s role as a FIFA World Cup 2026™ host city, and a spectacular finale honoring the fans and the city’s journey.
Performance lineups and detailed event timings for both days will be announced on Monday, July 13.
Ticket Information
Daytime general admission tickets are sold out, but GA+ and VIP options remain available. A limited number of free evening-only tickets (entry beginning at 6 p.m.) for both July 14 and 15 will be released on Friday, July 11, on a first-come, first-served basis. These tickets do not guarantee entry.
For the latest updates, ticket information, and premium options, visit the official FIFA Fan Festival Atlanta site or the Atlanta World Cup 2026 pages.
A Lasting Legacy in Centennial Olympic Park
Located at 265 Park Ave SW in downtown Atlanta, the FIFA Fan Festival has transformed Centennial Olympic Park—already iconic for hosting the 1996 Summer Olympics—into a global hub of soccer, culture, and Southern hospitality. The extension reflects the event’s “remarkable success” and the strong community response, allowing even more fans to experience live match broadcasts, interactive activations, family-friendly activities, and unforgettable performances in the heart of the city.
As the World Cup semifinals approach, Atlanta is once again proving why it shines on the world stage. Whether you’re catching the action on the biggest screen in the city or soaking in the closing festivities, these final days promise to deliver high-energy celebrations worthy of the tournament’s climax.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of history—head to Centennial Olympic Park and join the global party!
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- Tuesday, July 14 (Semifinal Eve Celebration): Open from 1 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
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As the second weekend of July 2026 arrives, Atlanta is gearing up for one of its sweetest annual traditions: PeachFest 2026, one of the best Atlanta festivals you can attend.
Now in its 12th year, the city’s signature summer tasting event transforms downtown into a vibrant homage to Georgia peaches on Sunday, July 12. This year, it moves to the historic Underground Atlanta (50 Upper Alabama St. SW), promising an immersive, all-inclusive culinary experience unlike any before.
What to Expect at PeachFest 2026
PeachFest isn’t your average food festival. Attendees will stroll through a live peach orchard—courtesy of Pearson Farm, which is trucking in fruit-bearing trees from Fort Valley, Georgia, right inside Underground Atlanta. Read why Georgia is called the Peach State.
The venue will feature over 50 celebrated chefs and bartenders serving peach-forward dishes and cocktails, from savory creations like peach pasta to sweet treats and innovative pies. Expect live fire cooking, pop-ups, and the buzz of Atlanta’s top culinary talent.
Highlights include:
- The Peach Pit Invitational: 20 of Atlanta’s best bartenders compete for a $1,000 cash prize with original peach cocktails made using Pearson Farm peaches (no added sugar). Guests get to sip every entry and weigh in, with celebrity judges crowning the winner. Presented by Código 1530 Tequila.
- Fireside Chats: Intimate conversations on Georgia peach farming (30 seasons with Pearson Farm), “The New South” in Atlanta’s culinary scene with Christan Willis, and a live chef demo/book signing with Monti Carlo, Hector Santiago, and Julio Delgado of Spanglish Cocina (making its Atlanta debut).
- Live Music, Photo Ops, and More: All-inclusive tastings, craft pours, and a community vibe with no stages or barriers—everyone mingles among the chefs.
The event runs from 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM (VIP early entry at 3 PM). It aligns perfectly with heightened downtown energy during World Cup week, offering a chance to explore Underground Atlanta’s revitalized spaces.
Ticket Options and Details
- VIP Access ($130): Early entry at 3 PM, first dibs on stations, plus exclusive perks like photo ops and priority access.
- General Admission ($95): Doors open at 4 PM; full access to all tastings, cocktails, chats, and the orchard.
Tickets are available at peachfest.org. Supplies are limited, especially for VIP, so grab yours soon.
A Festival with Heart
Beyond the bites, PeachFest supports local agriculture and gives back. A silent auction benefits CURE Childhood Cancer (Atlanta-founded research organization) and Piggy Bank’s Farm (disaster relief and seed support for Southern farmers). It’s a delicious way to celebrate sustainability, community, and Georgia’s peach heritage.
Whether you’re a foodie hunting for the next big flavor, a cocktail enthusiast ready to judge the best peach sip in town, or just looking for a fun summer afternoon with friends, PeachFest 2026 delivers. Atlanta’s downtown will smell like ripe peaches, and the energy will be electric.
Mark your calendar: Sunday, July 12, at Underground Atlanta. Bring your appetite—and maybe a designated driver for all those peach cocktails. Follow @atlpeachfest on Instagram for updates, chef announcements, and more.
This is one peach of an event you won’t want to miss.
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HART COUNTY, Ga. — A northeast Georgia traffic stop has led to the arrest of Atlanta-area resident and wife of radio personality Big Tigger, Alicia Brown, on serious out-of-state charges connected to the 2019 disappearance of her daughter.
According to the Hart County Sheriff’s Office, deputies pulled over Brown on Interstate 85 Tuesday and took her into custody on outstanding Maryland kidnapping warrants. Authorities say the warrants stem from the disappearance of her daughter several years ago.
Big Tigger’s Wife Arrested on Maryland Kidnapping Warrants
Brown also faces a new felony charge of interference with child custody in Georgia. Officials indicate she is expected to be extradited to Maryland to face the original warrants.
The Hart County Sheriff’s Office has released her mugshot.
The arrest comes amid heightened public attention surrounding Brown’s personal life. Leaked videos circulating online appear to show a physical altercation between Brown and her estranged partner, Atlanta radio personality Big Tigger (Darian Morgan), involving a dispute over his phone during their ongoing separation.
Big Tigger, a longtime figure in Atlanta’s entertainment and media scene known for his work on V-103 and other platforms, has not publicly commented on the leaked footage or the arrest as of Wednesday morning.
Background on the Maryland Case
Maryland authorities have sought Brown in connection with her daughter’s 2019 disappearance. Details of the original case remain limited in Georgia records, but the active kidnapping warrants prompted the multi-state effort that ended in her detention on I-85 in Hart County, roughly 90 minutes northeast of Atlanta.
Hart County Sheriff’s Office deputies acted swiftly once the outstanding warrants were confirmed during the routine traffic stop. Brown was processed locally before being held pending extradition proceedings.
Local Ties Draw Attention
The case has drawn significant interest in Atlanta due to Brown’s connection to Big Tigger, a familiar voice to many in the city’s radio audience. The timing of the arrest with the emergence of the alleged altercation videos has fueled social media discussion, though law enforcement has not linked the two matters directly.
No additional charges related to the videos have been announced. Hart County officials say their role was limited to the traffic stop and warrant service.
This story is developing. Atlanta News will continue to follow the extradition process and any updates from Maryland authorities regarding the 2019 disappearance case.
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ATLANTA — Soccer excitement is building across the city as Egypt’s national team, the Pharaohs, has officially secured a spot in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup — and they’re coming to Atlanta.
In a post shared today by the official FIFA World Cup 26 Atlanta account, organizers announced that Egypt will play its Round of 16 match on Tuesday, July 7, inside Atlanta Stadium (Mercedes-Benz Stadium).
Egypt’s Pharaohs Advance to FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, Heading to Atlanta Stadium on July 7
The Pharaohs will face either Argentina or Cape Verde, depending on the outcome of that matchup earlier in the day. Want to view the match on a big screen? Read our comprehensive Atlanta FIFA World Cup Watch Party Guide.
What This Means for Atlanta Fans
This marks a major moment for Atlanta as one of the tournament’s host cities. The July 7 clash is one of three Round of 16 matches scheduled at Atlanta Stadium, and it features high-profile talent, including Egyptian star Mohamed Salah.
Egypt advanced after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Australia in the Round of 32 earlier today. Here’s how the USMNT can make it to the World Cup final.
The result sends the North African side into the knockout rounds for what many consider a historic run.
The Path Ahead
- July 7, 2026 — Round of 16: Egypt vs. Winner of Argentina vs. Cape Verde
Atlanta Stadium | 12:00 p.m. ET
The winner of that match will advance to the quarterfinals, with Atlanta already locked in to host additional high-stakes games later in the tournament, including a semifinal on July 15.
FIFA Fever Has Atlanta Buzzing
Atlanta soccer fans and the broader community are already buzzing about the prospect of hosting one of the world’s most passionate national teams. Egypt brings a large and vocal fanbase, and the match is expected to draw significant international attention and tourism to the city.
Organizers and local officials have been preparing for months for the influx of visitors during the World Cup. With Egypt now confirmed for Atlanta, that preparation just got a major boost.Stay tuned to Atlanta’s local coverage for ticket information, fan zones, watch parties, and all the latest updates as the world’s biggest sporting event continues right here in the A.
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- July 7, 2026 — Round of 16: Egypt vs. Winner of Argentina vs. Cape Verde
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Peachtree Corners, GA — Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, the nationally acclaimed brand that began as a single scoop truck in New York City in 2008, is set to open its second Atlanta-area shop on Thursday, July 2.
The new location will occupy space at The Forum, 5143 Peachtree Parkway NW, on the north end of the property next to Politan Row and across from DSW.
Van Leeuwen To Open in Peachtree Corners
Known for its commitment to high-quality, thoughtfully sourced ingredients, Van Leeuwen has built a devoted following for both its classic dairy ice creams and innovative vegan options. The brand highlights premium elements such as pistachios from Bronte, Sicily, hazelnuts from Piedmont, and sun-ripened strawberries from Oregon.
“We’re so excited to be opening at The Forum and continuing to grow in Atlanta,” said Ben Van Leeuwen, co-founder and CEO. “We’ve always believed that great ice cream starts with great ingredients… That’s how we’ve made ice cream since we started with one scoop truck in New York City in 2008, and we can’t wait to share it with even more people here.”
The expansion reflects the brand’s continued momentum in the Southeast. Jamestown, the owner of The Forum, expressed enthusiasm about adding Van Leeuwen to its roster of dining and retail experiences.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Van Leeuwen’s second Georgia scoop shop to The Forum and continue expanding the property’s lineup of sought-after brands and dining experiences,” said Adam Schwegman, head of retail leasing at Jamestown. “The Van Leeuwen team has built a loyal following and we can’t wait for the Peachtree Corners community to experience their premium product.”
Grand Opening Celebration
To mark the occasion, Van Leeuwen will offer $1 scoops from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on July 2. The first 100 guests will also receive a limited-edition Van Leeuwen tote bag.
The new Peachtree Corners shop joins Van Leeuwen’s existing Atlanta-area location in Ponce City Market, further strengthening the brand’s presence in Georgia. With its focus on quality ingredients and inclusive offerings, the ice cream maker continues to appeal to both longtime fans and new customers seeking elevated frozen treats.
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ATLANTA — The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially arrived in the heart of the city, and today marks a historic day as Mercedes-Benz Stadium hosts its first knockout-stage match: England versus DR Congo in the Round of 32.
Kickoff is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. ET in what promises to be an electric atmosphere under the retractable roof. For Atlanta soccer fans, this is the moment the tournament truly comes alive locally — a clash between one of football’s traditional powerhouses and a spirited underdog making its knockout debut.
The Teams: Favorites vs. History-Makers
England, the Three Lions, enter as heavy favorites. Managed by Thomas Tuchel, they advanced comfortably from their group and boast a squad packed with Premier League stars including Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Phil Foden. England will be looking to put on a statement performance in Atlanta and avoid any upset jitters on American soil.
DR Congo (also referred to as Congo DR or the Leopards), on the other hand, are writing a fairy-tale story. In only their second World Cup appearance, they clinched a spot in the knockout rounds as one of the best third-place teams from Group K. Reaching this stage is already a massive achievement for the Central African nation, and they’ll be playing with house money against a much higher-ranked opponent.
Betting odds reflect the gap — England are around -335 favorites, while a DR Congo victory sits as a long shot at +1329 — but World Cup knockouts are famous for surprises.
Local Buzz and Fan Fest Vibes
Atlanta Stadium, which has already welcomed group-stage action including DR Congo’s match against Uzbekistan, is expected to be near capacity. Atlanta’s large international community, including strong African and European diaspora populations, should create a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere.
Centennial Park’s Fan Festival will be buzzing pre- and post-match with live entertainment, cultural exhibits, and big-screen viewing for those without tickets. City officials and local businesses have rolled out the red carpet, with special World Cup menus, transit boosts on MARTA, and heightened security around the stadium.
“This is what we envisioned when Atlanta was selected as a host city,” said one local organizer. “Today, the world is watching our stadium and our city.”
What to Watch For
- England’s Attack: Can Kane and company break down DR Congo’s defense early?
- DR Congo’s Counter: The Leopards have shown resilience and pace on the break — a dangerous weapon in knockout football.
- Tactical Battle: Tuchel’s pragmatic style versus DR Congo’s likely parked-bus approach and opportunistic play.
- Atlanta Factor: The heat and humidity outside (even with the roof) could play a role if the game goes to extra time.
How to Watch Locally:
- Broadcast: Available on major networks and streaming platforms (check local listings).
- Stadium: Tickets remain available through official FIFA resale channels, though prices are premium for this marquee matchup.
Win or lose, DR Congo has already captured hearts, while England knows a slip-up could end their tournament dreams early. For Atlanta, it’s simply another unforgettable chapter in our World Cup hosting story.
Come on, Atlanta — let’s make some noise!
Stay with Atlanta Sports Wire for live updates, post-match reaction, and more from Mercedes-Benz Stadium throughout the day.
