The FIFA World Cup has brought an extraordinary burst of energy to North Texas, and local students got a once-in-a-lifetime moment right at the center of it all. North Texas students were selected to escort World Cup stars onto the pitch at Dallas Stadium ahead of the highly anticipated match between England and Croatia, according to FOX 4 News Dallas-Fort Worth.

The excitement didn’t stop there. Croatian fans took to the streets of downtown Dallas in a spirited parade ahead of the match, filling the city’s core with color, music, and international camaraderie. WFAA reported fans parading through downtown Dallas in celebration, while CBS News captured the festive atmosphere surrounding the Croatia parade. England’s national team also made its arrival in Dallas, adding to the buzz that has transformed North Texas into a global soccer destination.

For the North Texas students chosen to walk alongside some of the world’s top footballers, it was a moment that connected their community directly to the world’s biggest sporting stage. The World Cup’s presence in the Dallas-Arlington area has drawn visitors and fans from across the globe, showcasing North Texas as a proud and welcoming host on an international scale.

With matches being played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, the region is experiencing a surge of cultural exchange, fan celebrations, and community pride — and local kids are getting to be part of the magic firsthand.

Sources: FOX 4 News Dallas-Fort Worth, WFAA