S. goal.
"There were questions about whether or not people are really excited [for the World Cup], would there be traffic, but I think everybody's forgotten all that and are just enjoying the games and having fun," said DesRoches.
Charlotte Connolly, a summer intern at Rice University from Columbia University, attended local watch parties and shared her observations on the atmosphere in Houston.
"It seems like the city supports the people, and it's excited for this event, and it seems well done," said Connolly.
Connolly added that the nature of the global tournament naturally generates widespread local interest. "It's the World Cup.
I don't think there's ever not going to be excitement," she said.
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Esteban Resendez attended the watch party and described how his household was divided during the opening matches of the tournament.
"My wife is a first-generation American. Her family is from Mexico," said Resendez.
Resendez noted that his family celebrated Mexico's opening victory the previous day before he turned his attention to supporting the U.
S. squad.
"They're really excited. Yesterday [Mexico's winning opening match] was fantastic.
I'm rooting for the U. S.
... That's been going on for a while now, [my wife] accepts my American jersey," he said.
Following his first-half exit, Pulisic provided a brief update on his physical condition and remained optimistic about his availability for future tournament matches.
"Staying positive," said Pulisic.
Pulisic indicated that the injury did not appear to be a severe issue for the remainder of the tournament.
"I don't think it's anything," he said.
The victory marks the largest World Cup win for the U. S.
team since hosting its last home World Cup 32 years ago under a new creative system deployed by head coach Mauricio Pochettino.
Maurício scored the lone second-half goal for Paraguay, but the national team could not overcome the early deficit in its first World Cup appearance in 16 years.
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The upcoming schedule for World Cup matches in Houston begins with a Group stage game between Germany and Curaçao on Sunday at noon.
