Soccer fans in Ottawa will have the chance to take in Canada’s Round of 16 World Cup match against Morocco on Saturday at a free watch party at LeBreton Flats. In a news release on Wednesday, the Government of Canada announced they had partnered with the City of Ottawa to host the event. “Canada’s historic FIFA World Cup run is bringing all of us together in communities across the country,” Marc Miller, the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, said in a statement. “As the nation’s capital, Ottawa will join that shared national celebration, with the gathering at LeBreton Flats giving everyone in the National Capital Region a place to share the excitement, celebrate our team and stand together behind the maple leaf.” Canada defeated South Africa in a 1-0 nailbiter on Sunday to advance in the elimination rounds. This will be Canada’s first-ever Round of 16 match. The game will be displayed at the Ottawa Bluesfest site on four large screens. Food and beverage options will be available on site. “Never before has Canada reached the round of 16, so it’s our pleasure and honour to invite the many fans of this great Canadian team to attend this party and to come out and support Team Canada!” Mark Monahan, the CEO and founder of Ottawa Bluesfest, said in a statement. The game is set for 1 p.m. and doors will open at 11:00 a.m. Admission is free on a first-come, first-served basis. The capacity will be limited to 20,000 and it is an all-ages event.
