SWFL fans pack Paradise Coast Sports Complex for World Cup

NAPLES, Fla. (WINK)—The World Cup is officially underway, and fans in Southwest Florida are gathering at Paradise Coast Sports Complex to cheer on their teams as the tournament continues.

Canada takes on Bosnia in Toronto, and the United States begins its tournament tonight against Paraguay in Los Angeles. The excitement is building as fans experience what makes the World Cup special.

WINK Sports reporter Lauren Halpern spoke with Matt Poland, head coach of FC Naples, who explained that while club soccer teams have passionate supporters, the pride from players and fans feels different as entire countries rally behind one team. 

Poland also shared its thoughts on the United States' chances in the tournament.

"It's not the worst group to get paired into. Turkey has been playing well, so I think that's going to be a tough game, but it's easier to get out now than in previous World Cups out of your group stage," Poland said. "So, you know hopefully they finish top of the table and top of their group, but you know I think regardless they'll make it out of the group stage for sure."

No matter who is favored on paper, anything can happen once the whistle blows.

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