The 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa is underway and residents all over Queens are buzzing with excitement for the highly-anticipated soccer tournament that only comes once every four years.
“I’m very excited. I’ve heard about the World Cup. I’ve never been so happy in my life,” said Frank Ogaard, one of the many commuters at the Long Island Railroad Station in Bayside, who were talking about the tournament.
“I just like sports games. They’re interesting to watch,” said Pat Fitzsimmons, another commuter at the station.
Restaurants and bars across Queens are similarly displaying their fervor for the World Cup by offering specials throughout the tournament.
“We got some people coming. There’s more enthusiasm with the staff people around here,” said Ed Schneider, Assistant General Manager of UNO Chicago Grill in Bayside. To celebrate the World Cup, the restaurant will be raffling a U.S.A. soccer jersey and a soccer ball on Friday, June 25.
Chris Evans, owner of Press 195, said that about 20 customers typically come in during the afternoon to watch soccer games. In the spirit of the World Cup, his restaurant has been offering drink specials. The atmosphere, he said, is generally “laid-back” and “fun.” Noting that his customers come from “diverse backgrounds,” Evans said the overall mood is “mellow.”
“I’d like to see Mexico do well and South Africa do well. Ideally, it would be great to see an African country win it all,” said Mehmet Kucukozer, a customer at Press 195 and a fan of the United States soccer team.
Hamilton Maher, another avid soccer fan at the restaurant, added, “I’d like to see Italy do well.” Asked about his opinion on the opening match between Mexico and host country South Africa, Maher said, “I thought it was an exciting game. Hopefully, they’ll set the tone for the games to come.”
Thirty-two teams from all over the world are currently competing at the World Cup for the chance to win $30 million in prize money. Participants include the United States, South Africa, England, Italy and the heavy-favorites, Brazil and Spain.
The tournament will culminate with a grand finale between the last two teams standing – on Sunday, July 11.
