JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Chants of “U-S-A” rolled through Pour Taproom in Downtown Jacksonville as fans watched the U.S. Men’s National Team beat Australia 2-0 in the World Cup, a result that clinched a spot in the knockout round with one group-stage match still to play.
The United States got on the board after an own goal by Australia, then added another on a goal by 21-year-old U.S. defender Alex Freeman. Each score drew loud reactions from the packed bar, where fans stood shoulder to shoulder in front of the screens.
Michael Harris said the watch party felt like the kind of shared moment Jacksonville typically gets around football.
“I wish we had this more often,” Harris said. “It reminds me of Jaguars. It’s the one thing that brings all of Jacksonville into one place for one reason.”
Fans told News4JAX the World Cup’s appeal goes beyond soccer. Several said they have been watching throughout the tournament because it only comes around every four years, and they enjoy the chance to experience it with a crowd.
“It’s been pretty fun. I’ve been watching every game, so I haven’t missed one yet, and just taking it all in,” Cameron Metarko said.
Others said the social side is part of the draw — meeting new people and reacting together when the goals come.
Chandler Moruy said this tournament has pulled in new viewers, too.
“It’s amazing. This is the first time I’ve ever paid attention to the World Cup,” Moruy said. “It’s amazing to see them do so well.”
Rylie Ballard said the atmosphere carried extra meaning.
“Honestly, I’ve been on deployment for the past couple years so to be able to come back out and see this big of a crowd … it’s awesome,” Ballard said. “I feel like unless you experience it, there’s no way to actually describe it.”
Pour Taproom owner Tony Draper said the turnout underscored the demand for spaces where fans can gather for big events downtown.
Draper also said watch parties like this can be a boost for local businesses, especially during stretches between major sports seasons, as customers stay longer and return for future games.
“It’s huge for businesses like ours,” he said. “We’re humbled by the turnout, and we want to keep this thing going. It’s a game changer for us.”
With the win over Australia, the United States secured a spot in the knockout round, keeping the tournament — and the watch parties — going in Jacksonville.