“For a nation so small to qualify for the World Cup, you know? No matter the result, we’re excited to be here,” said Zain Shalabi. “A country with 13 million people, and we’re here, you know what I mean. So, we’re excited. We’re excited to see ’em fight, no matter the result; doesn’t matter, we’re really hyped for these guys.”

For the first time in Jordan’s history, the team is in the World Cup. With two of its three group play matches in the San Francisco Bay Area, Jordanians from all over the world have flocked to the Bay Area to support their home country.

The Shalabi family came all the way from Chicago. Dad Sam emigrated from Jordan and met his wife, Rawan, in the U.S. They brought their three children to the Bay Area to watch both matches. The family witnessed Jordan’s feisty 3-1 loss to Austria on June 16 and returned to Levi’s for the team’s match against Algeria on June 22.

All three of the children know that it’s about the spirit of the World Cup

“We’re here for all the vibes. We’re here for all the fun stuff to do,” said daughter Sarah.

“It’s very touching. People, not just Jordanian, are going for Jordan,” said Sam. “I’ve seen people from different nationalities going for Jordan. This is heart-touching, and we appreciate all the support.”

“Even seeing the Austrians, I was walking around and I was even talking to them, just people coming from all over, it wasn’t like we’re enemies, it’s like we’re all friends,” said Zain before last Tuesday’s match. “We’re just here to watch a game, everyone. We’re gonna have fun, no matter the outcome.”

“Even if we win or lose, we’re just here to have fun,” said Sarah.

Mohammed and his wife, Suhaier, traveled from Pennsylvania to witness their home nation’s history.

“It’s very nice, very nice, and friendly. All people [are] friendly here, and the weather is very beautiful,” said Mohammed.

“So, it’s a good opportunity to meet your people, hear your language, your songs,” said Suhaier.

Seja Haddad is a leader in the Bay Area Jordanian American community.

“The support Jordan has received both locally and around the world has been so touching,” said Haddad. “The World Cup has given our community a platform to share our culture, tell our stories, and show the incredible pride Jordanians have in representing our country on the world stage.

“As Jordanians in the Bay Area, we’ve been following and celebrating every milestone on Jordan’s journey to the World Cup,” continued Haddad. “We were incredibly proud when Jordan qualified for the first time in history, but having the team play here in the Bay Area made it even more special. It transformed this experience into a true home away from home, bringing together Jordanians from across the country and introducing our community and culture to so many new people.”

Silicon Valley Voice’s World Cup Coverage:
Photo Gallery: World Cup Sell Out in Santa Clara Thrills Paraguay, Türkiye Fans
Paraguay Upsets Türkiye and Sends Fans Home Happy
Photo Gallery: Jordan, Austria Meet in FIFA World Cup