U.S. Soccer House is hosting fans for the first World Cup game, Mexico vs. South Africa, on Thursday.
The venue opens at 10 a.m., but visitors lined up early to participate in the watch party happening in Venice.
KNX News ’ Jon Biard spoke with fans like Adrian from Orange County, who came in early to get a good spot to watch the game.
“It seemed like the World Cup would never get here,” he said.
Some fans say they took time off work to attend this watch party. Luis, his girlfriend Karen, and his daughter Sophia say they were excited to see the game in some capacity.
“I wish that they had made [the World Cup] more people-friendly and tickets weren't thousands of dollars so that we could all enjoy,” Karen told Baird. “It's a game for the people, not a game for the rich.”
U.S. Soccer House also offers exclusive meet-and-greets, according to its site.
Jacob, a high school student from the San Fernando Valley, said he’s hoping to see Clint Dempsey, a former American soccer player, at the meet-and-greet.
“Since I was born, pretty much I've been a US soccer fan,” he said.
Mexico will play South Africa at 12 p.m. PST. Entry to Soccer House is free if you are pre-registered through their site.
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