TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A lively crowd filled Raymond James Stadium on Saturday to watch an international soccer friendly, where England secured a narrow 1-0 victory over New Zealand. This match served as a prelude to the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.
Attendees arrived buzzing with excitement, among them Curtis Leslie from Port Charlotte, a dedicated follower of English soccer for many years.
“I’ve been a Manchester fan since ’93,” Leslie shared, clearly passionate about the sport.
For Tampa local Darren Finebloom, the event fulfilled a personal dream, allowing him to witness a team that resonates with his family heritage.
“Both my parents hail from England,” Finebloom explained. “I haven’t had the chance to see them play live before. We’re huge Arsenal supporters, and it’s thrilling since we just clinched the league title.”
The friendly served as a final tune-up before qualified teams and players begin competing in the FIFA Club World Cup, which starts Thursday.
Among those in attendance were Stephanie Monteith and Sonrac Hylton, both originally from Jamaica, who said the match carried a personal significance.
“We’re very close, very close ties internationally. And we still keep that very close connection,” Hylton said. “We’re still a colony of England, too. So, it’s a big deal for us.”
Saturday’s match was one of several events across the United States leading up to the start of the FIFA Club World Cup. The tournament begins June 11.