Soccer Celebration, Brazilian Style
Eager fans were packed inside New York's Made in Brazil Sports Bar and Lounge earlier this week to watch their home country take on Croatia.
Jeeps and motorcycles parked outside are decked out in Brazil's yellow and green colors, as people squeezed together inside, even sitting on each other's laps to make room. Anything goes to make sure all Brazilians could witness their home country's opening game for the 18th world cup.
Yellow and green jerseys dominated the apparel with names like Ronaldinho, Ronaldo and Kaka on the back. Traditional Brazilian samba blasted as fans danced on chairs, around the bars and in front of the projection screen — and this was only the pre-game celebration. Nine TVs ensured that all regulars and newcomers were able to watch Brazil defend its World Cup crown. Friends, families and strangers hugged after every play.
"Brazil's the best in soccer. New York has their baseball and football, but we have soccer. The World Cup is for us," said Thais Nery, who was born and raised in Sao Paulo. The carnival dancer and bartender moved to the United States in February.
"The people from my home country are very friendly. They take care of each other," Nery said as she slipped a $10 bill into the cook's side pocket.
"In Brazil, soccer is more than a sport, it's a way of life," says Made in Brazil regular Helder Deassis, who was born and raised in southern Brazil. "Growing up in Brazil was very fun. I just went to school and played soccer, like all the other kids."
Deassis has found a taste of home in Queens. Made in Brazil has been in business for 15 years. "This place reminds me so much of home because we get to listen to our music, have our food and speak our language," said Deassis.
The afternoon party hosted Brazilians from different and disparate regions united in one thing: their favorite player, midfielder Ronaldinho.
"He plays very happy, that's why I like him so much," said Luis Dos Santos, the restaurant's cook.
"Ronaldinho played a long time, he was the best player and now we have a second Ronald." Nery said.
Another popular name that echoed in the room was Kaka. "My son, Christian, loves Kaka," said Made In Brazil's owner Michael Marich. "He's practicing hard in soccer because he wants to be just like him."
Brazil's 1-nil victory over Croatia sent the crowd into a frenzy. Children danced in the streets while their parents danced in the doorways, on chairs and behind the bar. Cars driving by honked their horns and pounded out samba beats.
The victory brought Brazil one step closer to its goal of a sixth World Cup title.
"I know Brazil is going to win," said Nery, holding a glass of caipirinha, a sweet-flavored Brazilian drink. "Soccer in Brazil is a ... really big game. It's a really big time for us so it doesn't matter who is playing. I am sure they are going to do good. I am sure they will."
By Chantee Lans