Who is singing the national anthem ahead of Canada vs Morocco? Who else is performing in 4th July celebrations?

One of the beautiful things about the World Cup is the mixing and merging of different cultures and countries from around the globe. The celebration of soccer and heritage makes for a one of a kind experience, and today before the two round of 16 matches, we will have a one of a kind pregame celebration.

America celebrating 250 to kick of Rd of 16

With the round of 32 wrapping up yesterday we embark on the next phase of the tournament. The round of 16 will kick off this afternoon in Houston, Texas when Canada meet Morocco with the first spot in the quarters up for grabs. That’s not the only cause for celebration from the Rocket City today.

It is the Fourth of July and the local fans in Houston will be in celebratory mode as they ring in America´s 250th Independence Day. FIFA and the local organizers have prepared a special pregame ceremony that will include a rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner” which will be sung by US Navy Band Chief Musician Maia Rodriguez.

“Houston Stadium’s pre-match celebrations will commemorate Independence Day in a red, white and blue extravaganza that will leave spectators revelling in the occasion as the FIFA World Cup 2026 Host City takes to the world stage on this historic day for the United States,” reads a FIFA press release.

Spot in quarters on line

It will be the first time we hear “Oh, Canada” in the round of 16 of a World Cup. Morocco’s anthem sounded at this stage of the tournament back in Qatar when they beat Spain in penalties on their way to a first ever run to the semifinals.

The prematch ceremony will start 25 minutes before kickoff, which is set for 1 p.m. ET. There will be pyrotechnics, custom scoreboard displays and performances that will all lead up to the singing of the national anthem.

Player will take the pitch 65 minutes before kickoff due to the lengthy prematch festivities. While the US anthem will be sung by Rodriguez, Canada and Morocco will have instrumental renditions of their anthems in the prematch ceremony. Once the match begins the two teams will be battling for a spot in the quarters and a chance to play the winner of the France and Paraguay match later today.

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