Though the scoreboard was less than exciting, the fans were energetic enough for everyone. The final group match at Levi’s Stadium on June 25 was the World Cup’s must-see match of the day, with Paraguay and Australia playing for second place in Group D. Though the match ended in a 0-0 draw, fans left happy.
“I think we were the better team. We dominated. We also qualified for the next round, so all in all, very positive performance,” said Australia supporter Sami Hallak.
“You see family in the crowd, and all the supporters, and you see the boys in the changing room, and it means a lot to us,” said Aiden O’Neill, Australia’s central defensive midfielder. “We appreciate all the people back home, as well. I’m sure they’re enjoying it as well.”
Hallak says O’Neill is right, Australia is proud.
“We’re definitely very proud. I think we’re going into this game, we were a bit worried that we were going to sit back, let the whole match play out, nil, nil,” said Hallak. “But we actually took it to them, we dominated the possession, we had more shots, and I’m very proud of the fact that not only did we make a good effort, but we went through, that’s what matters. So, the end of the day, we’re through.”
Though Hallak traveled from Los Angeles, where he’s lived for the last five years. He’s originally from Australia. Many of the other fans traveled all the way from Australia to watch the team, and they’ve been supporters throughout the journey.
“We’ve done the Seattle, USA versus Australia, and Turkey versus Australia in Vancouver,” said Siobhan, who traveled with her family, including four kids.
“We started in Vancouver, then we went to Seattle, and now we’re here,” said Lachlan.
“It’s been amazing. Yeah, America’s really turned it on for the World Cup. No complaints. The vibe has been high, it’s been electric, and yeah, been loving every second of it,” said Bailey.
The energy brought by the Australian and Paraguay fans created a once in a lifetime experience for fans of other teams lucky enough to get tickets to the game.
“This is something else, honestly. The way I describe it, this is like totally different. I’m excited. It’s just … I never … being in this situation right now, where I’m all excited, it’s like anything could happen,” said Chuy.
“This is crazy. Why are there so many people?” said 11-year-old Rohin when asked how he felt when he walked into the stadium.
His brother, 8-year-old Vivaan, only needed one word to describe the atmosphere.
“Loud,” he said.
Levi’s Stadium hosts one more game. On July 1, the U.S. national team plays Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32.
Silicon Valley Voice’s World Cup Coverage:
Security at Levi’s Ramps up for World Cup
Photo Gallery: Jordan Algeria Match Creates a Lifetime of Memories
Bay Area Welcomes Jordan Fans as Team Makes First World Cup Appearance
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
Fans Bring the Energy as FIFA World Cup Action Arrives at Levi’s Stadium
