U.S. advances with 2-0 World Cup win as Naples fans celebrate

NAPLES, Fla. (WINK) — Fans packed the Paradise Coast Sports Complex on Wednesday night to watch the United States survive a red card and defeat Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 in the World Cup’s Round of 32.

Folarin Balogun opened the scoring just before halftime, but the striker was later sent off, forcing the Americans to finish the match with 10 players. Malik Tillman sealed the victory with a late free kick, sending the U.S. into the Round of 16 for its first World Cup knockout-stage win since 2002.

In Naples, fans stood shoulder to shoulder wearing red, white, and blue as they watched every moment on the big screen.

Ashley Begelman took the patriotic theme a step further, arriving dressed as George Washington in a costume that originally belonged to her son.

“I’m George Washington. I’m rooting for the USA,” Begelman said. “It’s our 250th birthday, so what better time?”

Begelman, a teacher and lifelong soccer player, said several current and former students did not recognize her in the costume. She said hosting the tournament gives American players and fans another reason to rally around the team.

The night carried a personal meaning for Alexander Boutsikakin, who moved to the United States from Toronto.

“I’ve always had a dream of being in America and living the dream of being American,” Boutsikakin said.

Timothy Baron played soccer through college and now coaches his children. He said the tournament provides an opportunity to share the sport with a new generation.

“You couldn’t ask for anything better,” Baron said. “I just hope the U.S. can take it home, have the deepest run we’ve ever had, and make history.”

That run will continue Monday when the United States faces Belgium in Seattle for a place in the World Cup quarterfinals.