Despite a disappointing result for Canada soccer fans, thousands of people descended on Ottawa to watch the men’s team take on Morocco in a historic match at the FIFA World Cup on Saturday. A free watch party took place at LeBreton Flats, hosting up to 20,000 people at the site with four screens to allow fans to see the game. The City of Ottawa and the federal government teamed up to host the event with support from Bluesfest. Fans were seen packing the site in red, white and black under a hot, humid summer day in the nation’s capital. But despite the loud cheers and chants, Canada fell to Morocco 3-0 and were eliminated from the tournament. Canadian fans say they still have a lot to celebrate. It was the first time Canada played in a Round of 16 World Cup match after placing second in the group stage and defeating South Africa in the Round of 36. The Glebe Central Pub on Bank Street had a sea of red fans cheering a the top of their lungs. “I’m so proud of this team,” said Justin Cocchio shortly after the start of the second half. “We’ve been doing incredible. I love the atmosphere. Everyone’s here supporting our country. Let’s go Canada!” Fernando Melo says he would love to be in the stands in Houston, but knew if he couldn’t be there, he would be with fellow passionate friends and fans. “This men’s team is following in our women’s teams footsteps and is stepping up our team game,” he said. “We have the Canadian Premier League here bringing in local Canadian talent. At TD Place in Lansdowne, ticketholders were treated to a new view, seeing the World Cup on the big screen ahead of Atlético Ottawa’s afternoon game against Calvary FC. The team postponed its own kick-off until after the game, so fans could catch both on Saturday. “It’s great,” said Ben Merriman of the atmosphere. “I’m used to watching Ottawa, but watching Canada, it’s almost paradise.” Merriman is a big soccer fan and says this run has been great to witness. “It’s so good seeing your home country that you’re so proud to be part of and now you’re watching up on the big screen in your nation’s capital home. It’s just such a great experience, honestly.” Morocco will move on to the quarter finals against either Paraguay or France. With files from CTV News Ottawa’s Kimberley Johnson
