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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Guardian readers and Jess Mallaghan

‘I dreaded the World Cup but am now embracing it’: how the tournament won over (most) people in host cities

Mexico, Netherlands and Ecuador fans.
Mexico, Netherlands and Ecuador fans. Composite: Getty Images, Reuters and Shutterstock/Guardian Design

‘We’ve made new friends around the globe’

While Kansas City is the smallest of the 16 host cities, it has a history of punching above its weight and – armed with our own compelling soccer history to buoy us – organisers and the community worked hard to ensure that we wowed visitors and viewers alike. Hiccups with shuttle buses and traffic at our first home match were quickly addressed and resolved by our second match. Our watch parties are heartily attended; our official fan fest teems with people from all over the world.

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