The Fourth of July pregame festivities before the France vs. Paraguay World Cup Round of 16 match will go down as one of the greatest in history. Yes, it may seem a little odd to celebrate an awe-inspiring American cultural moment when no American team was involved, but hear me out.
On Saturday at Philadelphia Stadium (Lincoln Financial Field), the field was transformed to resemble the American flag, complete with additional performers and pyrotechnics. The Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale then delivered a performance for the ages with a stirring rendition of “America the Beautiful” in honor of America’s 250th birthday.
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Smoke forms the national flag of the United States during the Fourth of July ceremony before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Paraguay and France at Philadelphia Stadium on July 4, 2026. (Steph Chambers – FIFA / Getty Images)
While the choir sang, two young individuals (one White young man and one Black young lady) delivered what I would describe as spoken word — oral poetry emphasizing the beauty of our nation’s founding, especially as it relates to the City of Brotherly Love.
“250 years ago, in this city, an idea found its voice,” the young man said.
“Not perfect. Not finished. But bold enough to believe in people,” the young woman followed up as the choir hummed.
General view during the ceremony celebrating the Fourth of July before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Paraguay and France at Philadelphia Stadium on July 4, 2026. (Buda Mendes / Getty Images)
As the choir sang, they spoke about how America’s principles of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness have led to unthinkable freedom, and eventually to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which “unites the world.”
Other ceremonial elements included an appearance by Miss Pennsylvania, Stephanie Skinner, dressed as Lady Liberty, and a Navy flyover. It will give you chills.
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Philadelphia Boys Choir performs during the Fourth of July ceremony before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Paraguay and France at Philadelphia Stadium on July 4, 2026. (Dan Mullan / Getty Images)
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Happy Birthday, America!
