Team USA’s World Cup run came to a disappointing end after a 4-1 loss to Belgium in a win-or-go-home Round of 16 match, bringing an abrupt halt to the celebrations at one of the Bay Area’s largest watch parties. Despite the final whistle, flags still flew and jerseys remained on display at Sa n Pedro Square in San Jose. For many, the elimination was heartbreaking, but fans lingered to celebrate the Americans’ tournament run. “We played our heart out. We had a good run,” one fan said. Another added, “I’m just happy they made it this far.” In just a few days, the World Cup bracket has been turned upside down. The U.S., Mexico and Canada are all out of the tournament, along with crowd favorites like Brazil and Portugal. For fans like George and his 8-year-old daughter, Lily, who rooted for both Mexico and the U.S., the tournament was about more than the final score. After attending a match in Santa Clara and spending time at watch parties in San Jose, George said the memories are what matter most. “She told me last night, ‘I supported Mexico yesterday, you have to take me to the USA watch party today,’ and that’s why I’m here,” he said. “The memories with her, the videos, pictures — I never thought we would enjoy it this much, especially with an 8-year-old. She’s my partner.” The watch parties returned to San Pedro Square for the U.S. match after temporarily moving to the SAP Center and Discovery Meadow on Sunday for Mexico’s game. Many attendees praised the venue as one of the premier places in the Bay Area to experience the tournament. “I think it’s been amazing to see how everybody in America has really been into futbol,” one fan noted. The U.S. and Mexico matches have drawn some of the biggest crowds of the tournament. Local businesses are now hoping the remaining teams will maintain that economic momentum. “Business has been fantastic, for weeks over weeks,” said Douglas Cookerly of Sushi Confidential. “We still have Colombia — huge following, great country, great spirit. … We’re really looking forward to them as well. We just hope to keep the ball rolling all the way through the championship.” The watch parties will continue with Argentina taking on Egypt Tuesday, followed by Colombia and Switzerland in the afternoon. Even with their favorite teams eliminated, many fans say they plan to keep coming back simply “for the vibes.” ...read more read less