Little Algeria - the Kansas city taking a World Cup team to its heart
In a small city in the state of Kansas, a World Cup love story has started.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"When we found out that Algeria was coming here in February, we started preparations to make sure they knew they were going to be welcome."
— Ruth DeWitt , Executive
"We are so excited - a town of 100,000, to welcome these amazing people from Algeria."
— Stan Herd , Other
"They have brought their warmth, they have brought their energy, they have brought their excitement."
— Brad Finkeldei , Politician
"I think it's a great opportunity to show our little town."
— Subama Bhattachan , Executive
"I think it's really exciting just to have Lawrence be a part of such a big deal."
— Katie Liskey , Other
"I have some Algerian friends who have been down here and doing little rallies and supporting their team."
— Paige Hayles , Other
"I think it’s fantastic whenever someone from a foreign country comes to Lawrence and realizes how great it is here."
— Matt Kirby , Other
"We’ve been planning for this for a long time and our decision when we decided to bring a World Cup team be selected was we’re going to make everyone feel at home."
— Brad Finkeldei , Politician
"We’re so excited to watch the game. And this is our first World Cup game. And the first time in Kansas City."
— Zouhair Mahiaoui , Other
Key People
Mayor of Lawrence, Kansas.
A resident of Lawrence, Kansas, who expresses excitement about hosting the Algerian team.
Lionel Messi is a renowned Argentine soccer player, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
A longtime resident of Lawrence, Kansas, and a member of the Lawrence Barn Dance board.
A Lawrence resident who has friends supporting the Algerian team.
Director of community relations at the city's tourism bureau, Explore Lawrence.
Earthworks artist who created an installation at the University of Kansas Campus.
Owner of Zen Zero, an Asian fusion restaurant in Lawrence, Kansas.
A fan from Connecticut excited to watch the World Cup match.
Tags
All Coverage
In a small city in the state of Kansas, a World Cup love story has started.
Lawrence, Kansas, has embraced Algeria's national soccer team as their own during the 2026 World Cup, integrating them into local festivals and culture.
Lawrence residents have warmly welcomed Algeria's national team, with local events and support creating a vibrant community atmosphere ahead of the World Cup.
Lawrence's mayor emphasizes the city's efforts to make Algeria's national team feel at home during the World Cup, highlighting community support and preparations.
Kansas City prepares for its first World Cup match featuring Argentina and Algeria, with details on the event and transportation options for fans.
International fans, particularly from Argentina, arrive in Kansas City for the World Cup match between Argentina and Algeria, bringing energy and excitement to the city.
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