England fans have launched a full-scale invasion of Miami ahead of the World Cup quarter-final, even winning the backing of the local Marlins baseball team's official drummer. During a game last night, the drummer broke protocol and bellowed 'Let's go England' to the crowd, drawing applause from the Three Lions supporters.
Carnival Atmosphere at Marlins Game
The baseball game featured a carnival atmosphere as hundreds of England fans mixed with Norway supporters. At one point, Norway fans participated in their famous 'row' with the Marlins mascots. Noah Sarles, 23, from Great Hallingbury, Essex, told the Mirror: 'It was a lovely touch for the official drummer to chant ‘Let’s go England’. There were quite a lot of England fans in the stadium. They appreciated it. And the Marlins won - let’s hope there’s a similar victory for England.'
Brazil Fans Disappointed
Dozens of Brazil fans were also present, including a family who flew in from São Paulo overnight. The mother, who declined to give her name, said: 'We booked this months ago expecting Brazil to be in quarter final. It has cost us a lot of money but we decided to come anyway.'
Heat and Weather Concerns
Temperatures are expected to reach nearly 40 degrees Celsius at kick-off time in the stadium, which lacks a roof. Thunderstorms are also predicted, but FIFA officials hope to avoid a repeat of last weekend's match against Mexico, which was delayed by an hour. Miami authorities have set up hydration stations to ensure fans have access to water.
Superfan Gary Taylor
England superfan Gary Taylor, 64, and his girlfriend Jo Lewis, 44, arrived in Miami last night after attending every game so far. They relaxed in Cancun between the Mexico and Norway matches. Gary said: 'This is such a fantastic opportunity. Norway are a good side but playing them in a World Cup quarter final instead of Brazil is a dream. Let’s hope we play well and win and get to the semi final. Harry Kane versus Erling Haaland - the clash of two classic centre forwards.'
David Beckham and Travel Plans
David Beckham is in town and expected to attend the game. After the match, England will immediately fly back to their Kansas City base regardless of the result. If defeated, they will return to London on Sunday. A win would see them head to Atlanta, where they beat the Democratic Republic of Congo 2-1 in the round of 32, for the semi-final on Wednesday.
