The San Francisco Bay Area has proven its doubters wrong, drawing large crowds to its World Cup matches despite a schedule that was initially met with disappointment.

A Successful Run

With over 68,000 attendees at the Australia-Paraguay match, the Bay Area has shown that it can host successful and entertaining World Cup events. The area’s diverse fan base has been a key factor in its success, with fans from various countries and backgrounds coming together to enjoy the games.

Local residents, such as James Fay, a recently retired CFO, have been enthusiastic about the opportunity to attend World Cup matches in their own backyard. “Having a World Cup here is fantastic,” Fay said. “I didn’t get to go in ’94, it’s my first World Cup, so I’m coming, no matter what.”

Diverse Fandom

The Bay Area’s World Cup experience has been marked by a diverse and enthusiastic fan base. Fans from countries such as Mexico, Qatar, and Jordan have been in attendance, adding to the area’s vibrant and international atmosphere. The Bay Area Host Committee has praised the diversity and international fandom that has come to the area, saying it has been “amazing to see the diversity and international fandom that has come into the Bay and participated in fan marches, attended games, and experienced everything we have to offer.”

As the World Cup continues, the Bay Area is preparing to welcome the United States for its final fixture, a round-of-32 clash against Bosnia. With ticket prices spiking on reselling platforms, it’s clear that the area’s World Cup fever is far from over.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.