Dreaded the World Cup but am now embracing it': how the tournament won over (most) people in host cities

Dreaded the World Cup but am now embracing it': the article describes how the tournament won over many residents in host cities by turning initial nerves into shared celebration. It highlights Kansas City’s experience as the smallest of 16 host venues, where organisers and the community worked to impress visitors after early issues with shuttle buses and traffic during the first home match were resolved by the second. The story notes high turnout for watch parties and the official fan fest, with supporters from multiple countries creating a multicultural atmosphere. It also recounts specific scenes across cities, from Algerians being “adopted” in Lawrence to Colombian fans taking over Mexico City’s Angel of Independence monument, and Dutch supporters in Dallas. The competitive context is less about matches and more about how each city’s crowd culture shaped perception during the tournament.