ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — The World Cup commenced Thursday, bringing a surge of excitement to Rockford area bars and restaurants as they host watch parties. These establishments are preparing for increased turnout, particularly with the tournament being hosted in the U.S. this year.
The North American hosting of the global tournament is expected to significantly boost local engagement, drawing fans out to celebrate and support their favorite teams. Murphy’s Pub & Grill, for instance, has partnered with the American Outlaws Rockford Chapter, a group dedicated to supporting U.S. National Soccer, to cultivate a World Cup atmosphere in the Screw City
Elvis Bilich, manager at Murphy’s Pub & Grill, highlighted the diverse community gathering at their watch parties. “You got people from different countries, different ethnicities. So seeing everybody come in one place and even watching, you know, a different team than even their team is kind of nice to see,” Bilich said…