World Cup play returned to Philly, but festivities were dampened by mother nature. Fans in the stands at Philadelphia Stadium were sent running for cover after strong storms moved in late in the first half. And then the FanFest at Lemon Hill were shut down for the day due to the weather. But the rain didn’t ruin the excitement from fans of France and Iraq. CBS Philadelphia’s Eva Anderson is in South Philly right now with that part of our coverage tonight.
Yes, the weather delay caused the game to be put on hold at halft time for nearly 2 hours. But despite that, it got back in action and the French national team walked away with a victory, defeating Iraq 3 to 0. And by the end of the game, fans from both countries had plenty to talk about. After the final whistle, French fans cheered, singing and posing for photos as they celebrated that 3-nil victory over Iraq. Many of them carried flags, waving them high above the crowd. After a match that was interrupted by severe weather, many said the long wait was well worth it to see their team come away with a win.
We were obliged to wait 1 hour and a half for almost nothing. We play every day in France with that weather, but that’s okay. We drink beer and then we enjoy at the end of the game three-0 for France. It’s an amazing score. The energy was electric. There were tons and tons of Iraq fans beating their drums, having a great time. Everybody had a great time. I really wish it didn’t get rained out, but as soon as the game got back, it brought the energy right back. It was amazing.
Well, those drums he mentioned, video from inside the stadium shows exactly what he was talking about. During the delay, Iraq supporters had a celebration in the concourse, chanting, dancing, and playing music. This tournament is Iraq’s first World Cup appearance in 40 years. And despite the loss, fans said they were simply happy to see their country back on soccer’s biggest stage.
We’re very happy because we made it. Even if we lost 3-0, nobody mad. They all dancing. They all celebrating. But we still have chance in the third game. I mean, we’re one nil down. We thought we played well in the first half. Second half, we gifted a second goal. Another mistake. Same as Norway, but I’m thinking we’re playing against one of the best teams in the world, against some of the best players in the world. The boys did well.
Today’s match was the first World Cup game that was delayed by weather. In addition to that heavy rain, there was lightning in the area as well. And the next men’s World Cup game to be played here at Philadelphia Stadium will be on Thursday. Kurissau versus Ivory Coast, who has already played here at formerly the link Philadelphia stadium. So we’ll see if they can return again for another win.
