More than 3,000 soccer fans from across Tampa Bay packed the home of the Rowdies for a watch party Friday night in St. Petersburg as the United States opened play in the World Cup with a 4-1 victory over Paraguay.
Attendees enjoyed the match-day atmosphere of the world’s biggest sporting event from the stands of Al Lang Stadium while following the action from the match on a 20-foot-tall LED screen set up on the field.
Suncoast United Pipes & Drums performed live, and radio personalities from 102.5 The Bone made appearances. American Outlaw’s local St. Petersburg chapter kept spirits high with songs and chants throughout the night.
A portion of the proceeds from the $10 tickets benefitted Ocean Aid 360 for marine habitat restoration and The Williams Park Partnership, a nonprofit organization helping to revitalize St. Petersburg’s historic urban park.
The watch party, open to fans 21 and over, was the first of three for the United States’ group-stage matches that PMB events will host in St. Petersburg. Details for the others:
• June 19: U.S. vs. Australia, Jannus Live, 3 p.m. (Gates open at 1). Tickets
• June 25: U.S. vs. Turkey, Ferg’s Pavilion, 10 p.m. (Gates open at 8) Tickets
