England fan group issue vital matchday advice for supporters heading to Atlanta for DR Congo clash

As England prepare to face DR Congo in the Round of 32 at Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday 1st July, supporter group Free Lions have issued detailed matchday advice for travelling fans.

Covering transport, stadium rules, bag policies, food and drink, fan embassy support and essential matchday information, the guidance is recommended reading for supporters heading to the 12pm local time kick-off.

Below is a full breakdown of the key advice England fans need to know.

England vs DR Congo: Transport Advice

Walking & MARTA

Unlike several World Cup venues, Atlanta Stadium is located close to the city centre, making it one of the easiest grounds to access during the tournament.

Free Lions say many supporters will be able to walk to the stadium in around 20 minutes from downtown Atlanta.

Fans using public transport should take the MARTA rail network, with SEC District and Vine City stations on the Blue and Green lines serving the stadium.

The group also notes that MARTA provides a welcome break from the Georgia heat.

Taxis and Rideshare

Uber drop-off points are available close to the stadium, making rideshare a convenient option for supporters staying elsewhere in the city.

Driving and Parking

Parking is available from around $41, although prices increase the closer fans park to the stadium.

Spaces can be booked through FIFA or JustPark ahead of matchday.

England vs DR Congo: What Flags You Can Bring Inside

• Flags up to 2m x 1.5m are permitted without prior approval
• Larger flags require pre-approval before midday on the day before the match
• Supporters needing the approval link are advised to contact Free Lions

Atlanta Stadium Bags & Stadium Security

Supporters should be aware that Atlanta Stadium operates a strict bag policy.

• Clear bags must be no larger than 12in x 6in x 12in
• Non-clear bags must be no larger than 4.5in x 6.5in
• Bag storage is available for $25

The stadium opens at 9am local time.

The group also confirms:

Permitted items

• Power banks
• Suncream in tube form
• One clear 590ml water bottle (caps may be removed)
• Free drinking water is available throughout the stadium

Prohibited items

• Vapes
• Umbrellas
• Camera bags

Supporters should also note:

• The stadium roof will be closed
• Passports are required to purchase alcohol inside the stadium

England vs DR Congo: Eating & Drinking Options

Free Lions say there are plenty of areas across Atlanta worth visiting before or after the match.

Recommended Neighbourhoods

• Midtown
• Atlanta BeltLine
• Decatur
• East Atlanta Village
• Little Five Points
• Virginia Highland
• West End
• Doraville
• Sweet Auburn

Recommended Bars

• Brewhouse Cafe, described as the best football bar in the United States
• Stats Brewpub
• Fado Buckhead
• Fado Midtown
• Marlay House
• Halfway Crooks
• Midway Pub
• Der Biergarten

Inside the Stadium

Fans can expect relatively affordable stadium prices compared to several other World Cup venues:

• Water – $3
• Sports drink – $3
• Beer – $9
• Fries – $3
• Bacon cheeseburger – $7
• Chicken tenders and fries – $6

England vs DR Congo: Hydration Advice

Although Atlanta Stadium features a closed roof, supporters are still encouraged to stay hydrated while travelling around the city in Georgia's summer heat.

Fans can bring one approved 590ml clear water bottle into the stadium, while free water refill stations are available inside.

England Fans' Embassy & Support

The Free Lions Fans' Embassy will be located outside the Georgia World Congress Center near Georgia International Plaza and the transportation terminal at 285 Andrew Young International Boulevard.

Supporters can visit the embassy between midday and 5pm on the day before the match, with Free Lions saying a more precise location may be announced once volunteers are in place.

Emergency Helpline

Fans needing assistance during their trip can contact the Free Lions 24-hour emergency helpline on: +44 7956 121314.

England Supporters Travel Club (ESTC) ticket support is also available on matchday via: +44 7790 371105.