“World Cup Village” Sends USA Through

When 11 Americans took their positions on a World Cup soccer pitch in Brazil Thursday, hundreds more cheered them on thousands of miles away in New Haven’s Pitkin Plaza.

Since the international soccer competition began earlier this month, Pitkin Plaza has been the home of New Haven’s ​“World Cup Village.” It’s become the place to be to watch World Cup action, displayed on three large-screen TVs at the center of the Orange Street pocket park.

Hundreds turned out for the U.S. men’s national team’s final match of the group round, against Germany at noon on Thursday.

Every seat in the plaza was taken, with fans standing several rows deep in the back, and seated on the ground up close.

U.S. supporters cheered when the ball neared Germany’s net, and held their breath when it came toward the American goal.

Germany supporters were few, and included a lion.

Onlookers were decked out in star-spangled finery …

… and other patriotic garb.

Even the portable toilets got in on the spirit.

In the end, U.S. lost 0 – 1, but still secured a spot in the round of 16. The team plays next at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, against the winner of Group H. Soccer fans will no doubt crowd Pitkin Plaza again, to cheer on the national team from a continent away.