Croatian community leaders gather at Brauhaus Schmitz to celebrate Croatia and France and spotlight the “How Do You Phan” fan initiative ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
On April 8, Philadelphia Soccer 2026 hosted a happy hour at Brauhaus Schmitz to mark the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which kicks off June 11. Croatian American community members attended to show support for the Croatian national team during an evening that honored both France and Croatia. German fans were also invited, as Brauhaus Schmitz owner, Doug Hager, is German. The event also spotlighted the “How Do You Phan” initiative and encouraged fans to take part in Philadelphia’s World Cup experience.
The National Federation of Croatian Americans Cultural Foundation (NFCACF) was represented by President Steve Rukavina and board member Vedran Nazor. Philadelphia Soccer 2026 is the operational host committee to advance planning and executing FIFA World Cup watch parties and community events in the region. Philadelphia is the only Pennsylvania host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Philadelphia Soccer 2026 recently announced plans for three FIFA World Cup fan zones in Reading, Scranton, and Pittsburgh. The cities will host satellite events, including watch parties scheduled throughout the tournament. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said at a March press conference, “The matches may be in Philly, but I think the heart and soul of FIFA is going to be all across Pennsylvania.”
“How Do You Phan” is a campaign designed to rally soccer fans from diaspora communities with resources, downloadable fan content, and information about watch parties to support their favorite national teams. Each participating country, including Croatia, has its own page featuring basic team facts, players to watch, and social media assets.
Croatia’s national team, nicknamed the “Vatreni” (“Blazers”), is scheduled to face Ghana at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on June 27 at 5 p.m. The 2026 World Cup would mark Croatia’s seventh World Cup appearance and its fourth consecutive appearance (2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026). Croatia secured qualification after a 3-1 victory over the Faroe Islands on Nov. 14, 2025, topping its UEFA qualifying group.
Photo: NFCACF President, Steve Rukavina, joins (from left) Philadelphia Soccer 2026 President and CEO, Meg Kane, Philadelphia City Councilmember, Mark Squilla, Brauhaus Schmitz owner, Doug Hager, and NFCACF board member Vedran Nazor.
Cover photo – NFCACF President, Steve Rukavina, joins (from left) Philadelphia Soccer 2026 President and CEO, Meg Kane, Philadelphia City Councilmember, Mark Squilla, Brauhaus Schmitz owner, Doug Hager, and NFCACF board member Vedran Nazor.
Article written by Mark Plavetic.
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