SPOKANE — Hundreds of soccer enthusiasts filled Brick West Brewing on Monday as the U.S. men’s national team took on Belgium in a World Cup match with a berth in the round of 16 on the line.
The watch party drew a massive crowd eager to support the American squad as they pursued one of the program’s most significant achievements. The U.S. has advanced to the round of 16 only twice before in World Cup history, making this matchup a pivotal moment for the team.
“I don’t even know how this many people are fitting in here,” said Nicole, a USMNT fan at the brewery. “I don’t know how more people are going to show up. But the energy is like literally through the roof. It’s amazing.”
The atmosphere inside the brewery fluctuated as the match progressed. The U.S. struggled to generate offensive momentum against Belgium’s experienced squad, forcing fans to work harder to maintain enthusiasm throughout the game.
“I think maybe some chants and cheers might have to come out because that’s what’s going to keep the energy,” Nicole said. “I’ve been to the Seattle Stadium and I can’t even imagine what it is like there but I’d love to make it happen here too.”
The U.S. ultimately fell to Belgium 4-1, ending their World Cup run. However, fans at the watch party viewed the tournament performance as a stepping stone for the program’s future.
Steven, another USMNT fan at the brewery, highlighted the significance of the team’s depth in the tournament.
“It was actually really great to see the US team make it this far this time,” he said. “So many times they get out in the group stage or can’t make it past the knockout round. The fact that they went this deep was great. It’s good to see that the US team is getting better every time they show up.”
Beyond the national implications, local supporters see the growing interest in soccer as beneficial for the Spokane community.
“To see so many people, especially in our local area that are going to be supporting soccer now,” Steven said. “A lot of new Americans are being exposed to soccer now so hopefully we will carry that momentum and do better. We are going to make sure that soccer stays alive and well in Spokane.”
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