North Texas soccer fans fill bars to watch first day of 2018 FIFA World Cup

North Texans filled pubs and bars across the region to watch the first match of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

From Trinity Hall at Dallas’ Mockingbird Station to Ojos Locos in Arlington, fans said they were ready for a month filled with drama and exciting soccer games.

“Every time I watch the world cup it's the only time I get into sports,” said Melissa Lira.

The 10 a.m. kickoff of host nation Russia against Saudi Arabia meant people carved out time for their favorite sport -- and a beverage.

“It's my national liquid,” said Dillon Reid, who was watching the game with a beer in hand. “You can't judge an Irish man.”

Soccer fan Francis Gatins said he tries to enjoy every second of the tournament, held once every four years.

“We wait so long to get it, I already showed my wife a calendar. I said don't bother me during this month. You take care of the kids,” Gatins said.

Most of the soccer watchers admitted they were disappointed the United States failed to qualify, but tried to put a good spin on it.

“It's pretty sad that they are not going to be here this year, but looking forward to 2026 when the World Cup comes here,” Lira said.

it’s just 8 years until the U.S., and likely a stadium in North Texas, will host soccer's biggest games.

“It would be a unique sporting event, an opportunity to go see something. Interact with people of different cultures in the world,” said Russell Young. “I think it would be cool for Dallas and cool for my family to experience.”

Until then, everyone just wants a good time to be had by all.

“People, they can come together, and families, and they can just have fun watching the game,” said Caleb Rojas.

The 2018 FIFA World Cup airs June 14 – July 15 on FOX.