Hundreds Of Local Soccer Fans Gather To Watch United States' Dramatic Win Over Ghana
By Tim Jimenez
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Hundreds of fans, in their red, white and blue, gathered in Northern Liberties to watch the United States' dramatic win versus Ghana in the World Cup.
All of the eyes were on the giant flat screen set up in the heart of the Piazza at Schmidt's. This watch party was organized by Philadelphia-based Casa Soccer League.
"Beautiful weather and you couldn't ask for a better day," said Ryan Pine, Casa Soccer League's President. "We're very fortunate to be part of something very big that's going on in the world right now."
Pine expected around 500 people to attend. They arrived, filled the Piazza and were surrounded by representatives from the Philadelphia Union, vendors providing soccer merchandise, food and beverages. So, the beers may have been flowing, but so was a feeling of pride and patriotism.
"There's a great sense of unity. Feeling whole as a country rooting for America as one," said Matt from Philadelphia. "America! Hashtag America!"
"I have a flag around me. I have a headband. I've got a tie-dye red, white and blue shirt," said Zachary from Bucks County. ""You gotta be above and beyond. It doesn't matter if it's a pass or a nice assist. It doesn't matter, you go 100 percent cheering. You act like you're at the game."
Once six o'clock hit, these fans got into their zone and didn't have to wait long to have something to cheer for. Clint Dempsey's goal, one of the fastest in World Cup history, set the table.
"It's like everything that you dream of," said Paul from Rittenhouse Square. "If you could have pictured exactly how you would have liked the U.S. to start off - Dempsey dribbles in the box and puts one in - it was amazing!"
The high of that goal later faded with a Ghana score that hushed the once vibrant crowd.
"When Ghana came back and hit that late goal, honestly I thought things were looking a little dismal," said Greg from Wayne, Pennsylvania.
That would soon change with a United States goal, "U.S.A!" chants and finally hundreds, in unison chanting "I Believe That We Will Win!"
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