ATLANTA — The 2022 World Cup cheers still ring true.
And now, Atlanta fans are just cheering for future matches, with eight FIFA World Cup games coming for soccer supporters.
President of the American Outlaws Atlanta Chapter Bart Keeler said that it shows the hard work Atlanta soccer lovers have put into building a culture of excitement surrounding the sport in the city.
"To finally have those dreams realized, know exactly what types of games we're going to be getting--a semifinal. That's really exciting," Keeler said.
According to Keeler, the group has more than 200 chapters with 20,000 members worldwide. Keeler became president of the 400-member Atlanta chapter in 2021.
"For us, it's just about trying to create a good culture, a good community around soccer," Keeler said.
He added the mission of the supporters group is to unite and strengthen U.S. soccer support.
"I think Atlanta United has done a really good job of building a fan base that loves and supports its team throughout everything. Can we transition that to the love for the U.S. Men's and Women's National Teams? That would be what I would love to see," Keeler stated. "But I really think Atlanta already has a great soccer culture. This is just acknowledging and recognizing and amplifying what we've already built here."
The group tends to gather and watch matches at Fado Irish Pub in midtown.
"And as we get ready for 2026, Fado Midtown will be a huge gathering place for anyone who wants to be a soccer fan during that time," Keeler said.
He believes Atlanta is ready for soccer on a global stage.
"To get a semifinal specifically, I think, is really a testament to what this city means on an international scale," Keeler said. "People forget we hosted the Olympics and that type of pedigree lives in the blood of not just the city but the people who live here. I think that's one thing that Atlanta has more than just about any other city in this country is we can welcome the world, and they'll be right at home."
Atlanta has the second-most World Cup matches in North America with eight, only trailing Dallas. According to data gathered by AMB Sports and Entertainment, it's estimated that the World Cup will generate $415 million in revenue for the City of Atlanta.