CHARLESTON, W.Va. — It’s not very often that a loss is still seen as a win. However, that was the case on Thursday for many soccer fans around the country.
Soccer lovers young and old gathered to watch the USA take on Germany in the 2014 FIFA World Cup and though they were cheering for the USA, they were far from disappointed when Germany came out on top.
“I have never been happier to lose. We’re on to Round 16 so that’s just huge. It’s good seeing everybody get out and it’s good seeing the excitement. I don’t think a lot of work got done today,” said avid soccer fan Andy Blieden when he spoke to MetroNews at Adelphia Sports Ball in downtown Charleston Thursday afternoon.
People were optimistic at the U.S. team’s prospects when the game began, even if a win isn’t exactly what they were hoping for.
“Whatever the scenario is that allows us to move on, which is a tie, a win, or probably Portugal beating Ghana, those would all take us to the next round. So, whatever it takes to get that would be great, a win would be a bonus,”, said John Hamilton.
Like Hamilton, many that joined to watch the game have their own personal history with the sport and have watched the World Cup every chance that they’ve gotten. However, Hamilton said that he doesn’t mind those that haven’t been following for years as he has.
“The more, the merrier. You want everyone cheering whether they cheer once every four years and forget about it the rest of the time. I think everybody comes together every four years to watch the World Cup,” Hamilton said.
Germany defeated the USA 1-0 and while many would have preferred that the Americans score at least one goal, they are happy with that result. USA fans are continuing to cheer for their team as they move on in the tournament, but they recognize and respect the competition as well.
“Germany looked like they had 20 guys on the field. Germany has got a good shot of winning it all. We haven’t made it two times in a row to the Knockout Round of 16, so it’s a huge accomplishment for the U.S. It’s a great U.S. team,” Blieden said.
Many agree that one of the best things about the World Cup is the way that it brings people together to enjoy a sport that they love and to cheer for a team from their home country.
“All across the United States people are getting together and screaming like maniacs at a TV. So, it’s a lot of fun,” Blieden said.
The USA will play again on Tuesday, July 1 at 4:00pm.