"I am not even a soccer fan, but how can you not be a soccer fan during the World Cup?" said Ryan Hogan of Macungie.

Hogan was part of a crowd of thousands who showed up for the USA-Portugal soccer match at the World Cup SoccerFest and Viewing Party at SteelStacks in Bethlehem. The event featured numerous giant screen televisions along with food and refreshments.

The June 22 event brought many people, both longtime and new fans, from all over the area together to celebrate their love of soccer.

The majority of the crowd sported red, white and blue in support of the U.S. team, exhibiting confidence and their optimism for the result of the game.

"I believe that they have a chance to win, I really do," said Jared Troxell of Allentown. "Why come if you don't believe?"

Other spectators, such as Dan Cudzil of Schnecksville, said they didn't make predictions but instead hoped for the best and rooted on the team.

While the number of U.S. supporters outnumbered those of their opponents, the Portugal fans also made their presence known.

"I've been watching soccer since I was a little kid," said Stephanie Forres of Allentown. "I think Portugal's chances of winning today are good. Going all the way, not so much."

Appreciation was expressed for the gathering place and atmosphere SteelStacks provided.

"I think this is great. This is way better than sitting at home," Forres said. "I think it's nice when people can come together like this even when I'm rooting against them."

Hogan remarked that the atmosphere created by the fans was fabulous and that the attention brought to SteelStacks is wonderful for the area. Troxell agreed, saying being able to share in the spectators' patriotism was a great experience.

Although this kind of support for soccer in the United States was unexpected by many, the spectators were happy to come together and share in the excitment with fellow fans.

"I think it's great," Troxell said. "I'm really glad they're holding this in Bethlehem."

Mark Demko, the spokesperson for Arts-Quest, the nonprofit arts organization serving as the host for the SoccerFest and Viewing Party at SteelStacks, said the turnout for the games has been overwhelming.

"The support from the community for the FIFA World Cup SoccerFest and Viewing Party has been simply amazing," Demko said. "Over the past 11 days the crowds have continued to build, with more than 10,000 people coming out last night to cheer on the USA during its big match against Portugal.

"The World Cup is the most popular sporting event in the world, and we've definitely seen that in recent days, with so many people coming out to support their favorite teams. Overall, more than 35,000 people have attended the festival since it started, enjoying not only the games on the giant outdoor screen on SteelStacks Air Products Town Square, but also the free soccer clinics, hands-on soccer activities and free family fun."

Demko added he expects the excitement and the crowds to grow as the tournament continues.

"We thank all of the programming partners, sponsors, volunteers and fans who have come together to make this event so successful," he said. "We're looking forward to showing all the rest of the World Cup action on SteelStacks' other two outdoor screens."