KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – Two Hispanic nations are confirmed to play soccer matches in Kansas City next summer, generating excitement in the city’s Hispanic community.
Alex Santoro, whose father grew up playing soccer in Argentina, said the energy Hispanic fans bring to games is unmatched.
“The energy that they bring to the games is truly nothing like I’ve seen before,” Santoro said.
Santoro said Argentine culture values soccer unlike anything else.
“The culture of Argentina fans, I know when it was in Doha, when it was in Qatar, people really sold their homes just to go to the game, to go experience that,” he said.
For many in the Hispanic community, the matches represent more than sports.
“Latinos and futbol, soccer, go hand in hand. So our community is extremely excited. To have Argentina and Ecuador, to have two teams. This is tremendous,” said Carlos Gomez, president of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City.
The games are expected to create a competitive atmosphere with rival fans, national pride and Kansas City energy. Santoro said he plans to attend.
“With it being in my backyard, I truly have no excuse, so I’ll be at the game,” he said.
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