The World Cup has captured the imagination of fans across the United States, with a tournament store in Houston providing a micro view of how the finals are perceived on a local level.
Local Demand for Merchandise
Store assistant Matthew Schafer noted that the sale of DR Congo shirts was a surprise hit, along with merchandise from other African countries such as Morocco.
Schafer believes it is predominantly locals purchasing merchandise as they get caught up in World Cup fever, with many buying jerseys to wear with their kids.
One customer bought over $5,000 worth of merchandise, including jerseys, key chains, and other items.
Fans Support Their Teams
Zara Hashmi, who is attending Morocco’s last-16 clash with Canada, said she wants to support Morocco and bought a Team USA jersey and a Houston t-shirt.
Aldo Lopez, visiting from Panama, bought Argentina jerseys for his sons, citing Lionel Messi’s popularity as a factor.
Xavier Sutton, an 11-year-old from Florida, is looking for a Spain jersey because his favorite player is Lamine Yamal.
Schafer noted that many people come in just to buy a small item as a memento of the event, with key chains being a particularly popular choice.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
