- Fans in Sandy gathered for the U.S. men's soccer team's World Cup opener against Paraguay on Friday.
- The watch party drew 6,500 attendees, uniting first-timers and diehard fans, as the U.S. earned a 4-1 victory.
- Real Salt Lake's Jesús Barea highlighted the tournament's global unity and cultural impact.
SANDY — World Cup energy swept through America First Field on Friday night as thousands of fans gathered to cheer on the United States Men's National Soccer Team.
The U.S. opened its World Cup run with a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay, a result that electrified the watch party crowd in Sandy. From first‑timers to lifelong supporters, fans packed the stadium to be part of the global moment.
Though the match was held in Los Angeles, 700 miles away, the excitement of the world's biggest tournament was impossible to contain for the 6,500 fans gathered in Sandy.
Children waved flags, families posed for photos and chants of "USA, USA, USA," echoed across the venue as the match unfolded on the big screens.
Some fans were experiencing the World Cup atmosphere for the first time.
"This is our first time, but we're enjoying it," said Doug and Maureen Webb.
Another young viewer, Mason Fearonce, added, "'Cause there's a Super Bowl game, wait, the FIFA World Cup game," a sign of how the tournament is drawing in new audiences.
But the diehards made their presence known, too.
"We've got the people, we've got the passion, and we've got the power," one fan shouted, capturing the energy pulsing through the crowd.
Real Salt Lake player Jesús Barea said the World Cup's impact goes far beyond the pitch.
"People love each other, people love every country in the world, so I think the World Cup is putting people together as well," Barea said, reflecting on the unity the tournament inspires.
For many, hosting matches on American soil adds another layer of pride. One person emphasized how meaningful it was for them to see the U.S., also known by their nickname "The Yanks," take center stage as a host nation.
And while the team is considered an underdog in making it to the finals, supporters in Sandy embraced that identity with enthusiasm.
"Last time we were underdogs on our own soil was 1776, and we are going to win again, baby," one fan summed it up with a patriotic punch.
With the win, the Stars and Stripes secured 3 crucial points as they prepare for their next match against Australia next Friday.
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Garna Mejia
