Fans are gearing up for the biggest sporting event in America as Super Bowl fever peaks ahead of tonight's game at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.

The New England Patriots and underdogs Atlanta Falcons will be going head to head in the big finale of the NFL (National Football League) season.

With both sets of fans desperate to get a seat, the most expensive face-value tickets in sport (starting at a minimum of $1,500, or £1,200) are now selling for $2,200.

Image: Fans of the Patriots will be hoping they can get their fifth NFL title

Image: The Falcons are the underdogs are have never won the big game

The Patriots will be making a record ninth appearance, while the Falcons have played just one other Super Bowl - in 1999 when they lost to the Denver Broncos.

Political protests aimed at Donald Trump are expected, with five separate demonstrations taking place in Houston before kick off.


The Black Lives Matter movement, religious leaders and the local Democratic Party are all expected to target President Trump's travel ban.

Image: People gathered at Houston City Hall to protest

There is also speculation that protests might occur during the event itself, with the outspoken Lady Gaga performing during the half-time show.

Some expect the star - who is an advocate for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights - to capitalise on the show's massive TV audience and hit out at the President's controversial policies.

After Mr Trump's election win she was pictured outside Trump Tower in New York holding a poster with the words "Love trumps hate".

Keeping the details of her "tremendously athletic" performance close to her chest, she said: "The only statements that I'll be making during the half-time show are the ones that I have been consistently making throughout my career.

Image: Falcons players get acquainted with the Houston stadium

"I believe in a passion for inclusion, I believe in the spirit of equality and the spirit of the country as one of love and compassion and kindness. So my performance will uphold those philosophies."

British band Coldplay headlined last year but Beyonce stole the show performing just one song - Formation - with a political message of black pride.

However, the most notorious half-time show belongs to Janet Jackson, who in 2004 revealed her breast to millions after suffering a "wardrobe malfunction" at the hands of Justin Timberlake.