Santa Clara is finalizing details to make sure everything runs smoothly ahead of the city’s first World Cup match on Saturday. Team Switzerland arrived at SJC on Friday, less than 24 hours before taking the field against Qatar in the first World Cup match to be played in Santa Clara. With th e world’s attention turning to the South Bay city, officials say they’re ready. “I think all of our planning, all of our preparations, I think are really going to pay off for us and we’re going to have a great World Cup,” city Mayor Lisa Gillmor said. Gillmor says the city has been working with federal, state and county partners to ensure a safe event for everyone. “Our police chief and our Santa Clara Police Department, they’re in charge of security for Levi’s Stadium, our publicly-owned stadium, so we’re working with all of our partners because it’s going to take a village to make sure that everybody’s safe,” she said. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies were finalizing their security operations. The FBI’s plan, called “Operation Goal Kick,” focuses on three key areas: Partnerships — including task forces targeting violent crime, organized crime, human trafficking and child exploitation. Intelligence Sharing — coordinating with local emergency operations centers and police departments. And Specialized Resources — including bomb technicians and other expertise.Officials say security will be highly visible behind the scenes, while keeping the fan experience front and center. “You won’t see us, but we will definitely be out there,” FBI Assistant Special Agent In Charge Matt Cobo said. “Our main function here is to work with our partners to ensure that we have safe and enjoyable games for everybody involved.” SF FBI Agent In Charge Scott Schelble said. While preparations continue in Santa Clara, World Cup fever is already spreading across the South Bay. Fans gathered on Friday night at San Pedro Square in downtown San Jose to watch the U.S. take on Paraguay. “I’ve just been wandering around, enjoying the vibes. It’s great out here. All the people come together, everybody is kind of chill,” Justin said. The watch parties have also included a heavy security presence – a preview of what fans can expect around Saturday’s match. City leaders say they want people to enjoy the celebration, but they’re also reminding fans to plan ahead: expect road closures, heavy traffic and extra security checkpoints before and after the match, especially along Tasman Drive and around the stadium complex. The message: come early, be patient, and enjoy a historic day for the Bay Area. ...read more read less