Vancouver venues ready to host soccer fans for Sunday’s World Cup final
Posted July 13, 2018 12:19 pm.
Last Updated July 13, 2018 3:53 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – More than 1,000 Croatia fans are expected to gather at the Croatian Cultural Centre in Vancouver to cheer on their country on Sunday in the World Cup final.
Eva Malenica with the venue says there is a lot of passion and love in the small, close-knit community. She calls the team’s journey to the final an amazing experience. “I’m pretty confident we’re going to win. But regardless of the results, I think anybody that’s Croatian out there cannot be any more proud of that team and our country.”
“It’s probably one of the most amazing experiences I’ve had here,” she adds.
Croatia supporters have gathered for previous matches at the venue.
The centre will open its doors at 7 a.m. on Sunday.
Meanwhile, a French bakery in Kitsilano is also set to be bustling that morning.
Fabrice Roche owns the Plaisir Sucre, and says it’s a huge deal for France to be in the final after the country lost the Euro Cup final two years ago.
But he adds after France beat Croatia in a World Cup semi-final 20 years ago, Croatia is ready for revenge. “Technically, France looks stronger. But Croatia has more spirit — and they beat Argentina 3-0. It’s going to be a very tough game for both teams.”
“May the best win!” he exclaims.
France supporters have crowded the bakery for matches earlier in the tournament.
The bakery will be opening at 6:30 a.m. for the 8 a.m. kickoff.
