Posts by Susan Jones57

I’ve just returned from the match, so here is my promised "report."

In principle, much like Group 1, there was no display of sheer elegance or fluid artistry, but since everyone is playing at a similar level, the tension remains high.

To me, Iceland didn't necessarily look more skilled in that first game, just more decisive, which is how they secured the win. I was somewhat surprised by the lack of support from the Canadian fans; if anything, the turnout felt twice as large during Monday's opening round.
The Americans, much like the home team, weren't exactly easy opponents, but France was simply more clinical in front of the net.
The US missed their window for victory due to unforced errors, particularly as the clock wound down. I honestly thought the game would be decided around the 50th minute—leading 21-19—but then the momentum shifted entirely. There was also a great chance to pull ahead when Alilović’s penalty was saved, but nothing went our way. Even if all 2,000 American fans had gathered at the arena, it might not have changed much. The cheering was solid, though I think it could have been more intense in those final moments; unfortunately, there wasn't a single highlight-reel play to really electrify the crowd.

That's the situation: things have become complicated in this group, and Tuesday night might make matters even messier.

One final note, in case anyone finds it useful (as some fans have asked me where and if they can grab tickets for the upcoming rounds): from what I saw at the ticket booth while exiting the arena, it looks like tickets for both rounds are still available for general sale—nothing is listed as sold out yet. Prices are roughly between $15 and $25. Given that the US still has a realistic shot at the semifinals, you should probably keep the big arena in mind now; tickets are still available, but that could change tomorrow if Mexico manages to force a thriller. Interestingly, the organized support from the local fans hasn't been massive—it was actually the Mexicans who filled up the arena last night.

It’s hard to pin down the exact number of Mexicans in attendance—the highest figure I heard from their side was a staggering 12,000. They practically occupied both the upper east and west stands, which accounts for at least 3,500 to 4,000 people, not to mention those scattered elsewhere. From what I gathered, they tend to head back home to Mexico in large groups right after the match, only to turn around and head back within about 15 or 16 hours. I’d say there were at least 7,000 of them, and they were a fairly organized crowd, ready to sing and cheer. The Mexicans also made their presence felt during the first game; the Phalanx finally made some noise around the 50th minute of the Poland vs. Sweden match. Meanwhile, the organized Mexican supporters spent half an hour being shuffled between different floor sections before they were finally given a spot...
What I feel most for are the Mexicans; this loss has essentially ended any hope they had of making an impact. As for the games: they've been unpredictable, even though we started all three matches with a team that managed to build up a lead. It isn't exactly world-class handball, but at least it's engaging to watch.

Tomorrow, I will provide an update on today's atmosphere in Chicago.