Seattle subdued as United States prepare to face Belgium in last 16 | OneFootball

Seattle remains subdued as the United States, the host nation, prepare to face Belgium in the World Cup last 16, kicking off overnight from Monday to Tuesday at 2am. Many locals insist the buzz will come on matchday.

According to L'Équipe, the downtown team hotel was quiet, two police officers looked relaxed beside a parked bus, and only about ten fans turned up the previous day. The venue was full because of the 4 July weekend.

Independence Day garb dotted the streets, yet signs of the tie were scarce. The city was instead dominated by Toronto Blue Jays supporters in for the baseball against the Seattle Mariners.

One stars-and-stripes couple had already been to a World Cup game in Houston but did not realise this match was here, though they were impressed by Team USA. A nearby kit seller said United States and Argentina shirts had sold out, even if few wore them.

Views were split. Marcus, not a soccer fan, felt patriotism could fuel support but wanted the United States to lose, while others expected Monday to be packed and welcomed a World Cup change from American football and basketball.

At the waterfront fan zone, two stalls offered shirts but none for Team USA. A vendor pointed to hybrid USA and Seattle Reigns items and a Roldan tee, and believed Monday should finally feel lively.

Source: L'Équipe