Soccer's Back In The Boroughs: NYCFC Fans Revved Up For Home Debut
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Football has returned to New York City -- no, not that football.
The five boroughs have finally gotten their own Major League Soccer team, New York City FC, which began its home opener Sunday against the New England Revolution at Yankee Stadium at 5 p.m.
Soccer fans packed bars around the stadium ahead of the match, 1010 WINS' Darius Radzius reported.
"NYCFC, baby!" one fan said. "That's what brings me over here."
"Proximity and embracing the fans, the locals especially, is going to be a big thing for New York City," another fan said.
The city last had big-time soccer in 1976.
The metro area does have the New York Red Bulls, but they play their home games in Harrison, New Jersey.
"I also think that the league is looking for rivalries," a fan said.
Christopher Reade told WCBS 880's Monica Miller he hasn't followed soccer up until now.
"It's definitely weird seeing a different sport rather than baseball, but you know what I'm excited and looking forward to it," he said.
Reade and friend Chris Freeman bought season tickets to the New York City soccer club.
"I'm a big Barcelona and ManUnited fan so it's good that I can come to see MLS games so close to home because I can't go out to Spain any time," Freeman said.
With their new club scarves wrapped around their necks, they say it's nice to see new faces around Yankee Stadium.
In its season opener last Sunday, NYCFC played fellow expansion team Orlando City SC to a 1-1 tie in Florida.