Ebanie Bridges has issued a warning to American fans: 'Expect a ruckus' as Australian supporters flood Seattle for the crucial World Cup match between Australia and the United States.
Bridges Backs Australia to Upset Hosts
The boxing star, born in Australia but now based in the UK, believes her national team can surprise the USA in their second group game. 'I think we can beat the USA,' Bridges told Daily Star Sport. 'This team doesn't have much expectation on them. There aren't really any big names like in the days of Mark Viduka or Tim Cahill.'
However, Bridges is less optimistic about Australia's chances of winning the entire tournament. 'I can't see us winning the whole thing if I'm honest. The other teams are too strong. But this is a good team, tight-knit, and Tony Popovic has done really well with them.'
Thousands of Australian Fans Take Over Seattle
Green-and-gold-clad supporters have turned parts of Seattle into a home away from home. At an MLB game between the Seattle Mariners and another team, Australian fans performed 'shoeys'—drinking alcohol from shoes—which went viral on social media. The Mariners' social media team responded with amusement: 'We watch!'
One fan was seen blowing up a beach ball, only for security to confiscate it. The scenes echoed Scottish fans taking over Fenway Park earlier in the tournament.
Local Bar Prepares for Influx
The only Australian bar in Seattle is ready for the crowd. Owner Bradley Howe said, 'When it was announced that the US was going to Seattle, I couldn't believe it. I've got kegs at my house, liquor everywhere. We are stacked and loaded.'
Bridges warned that Americans may not be ready for the atmosphere. 'I think we're going to cause a ruckus. Americans are quite different to us Aussies.'
Political Chants and Team Spirit
Australian fans have already made headlines with a chant targeting Donald Trump, drawing criticism from US Senator Rick Scott. Bridges added, 'It's exciting to see Australia at a major tournament. Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Oi, Oi, Oi. Like all Aussies in any sport, we'll fight till the death.'
Both teams won their opening matches, and a win for either side would likely secure top spot in the group and a favorable knockout draw.
