USA fans can typically make any stadium in the world feel like a home stadium advantage.
This was not the case for the USA’s opening game in this World Cup at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand. Vietnamese fans, many adorning red shirts with one solo yellow star on the front, filled sections and pockets of the stadium. They were loud and their presence was felt.
The Vietnam team held the Americans to a 0-0 draw until the 14th minute. While rooting myself for American dominance, it was hard for me not to be proud of the Vietnamese team and impressed with their fan base.
The Americans performance was lackluster until substitutes Rose Lavelle and Megan Rapinoe made their appearance in the 64th minute.
Sophia Smith impressed with two goals and an assist.
