Soccer-Algeria's win lifts Kansas town that adopted their World Cup dream

Algeria’s 2-1 win over Jordan on Monday boosted both the North African team’s World Cup hopes and the small Kansas city of Lawrence that has embraced the squad. Reuters reported that with a population of about 96,000 and home to the University of Kansas, Lawrence held a watch party that turned downtown into a mix of green, white, and red after Algeria secured their first group-stage victory. Despite Algeria’s earlier 3-0 opening loss to reigning champions Argentina in nearby Kansas City, residents have intensified their support, with many planning to attend when Algeria plays Austria in a decisive Group J match on Saturday in Kansas City. The celebration has extended beyond games, including Algerian-themed storefronts and trees illuminated in the national colors, alongside local commerce growth in halal offerings and merchandise. A seller of Algeria T-shirts said demand exceeded expectations, leading to multiple reprints of an initial order of 100 shirts, reaching about 400 to 450 sold.