MONTREAL — Montreal’s Little Portugal district was alive with activity over the lunch hour – and it was noisy.
On St. Laurent Boulevard, sports bars and cafés were packed.
There were so many people at one bar, the viewing party stretched out onto the sidewalk.
Portugese-Montrealers were pumped out for the country’s World Cup debut against Germany.
But in the end, it was not Portugal’s day; the German squad dominated.
They made fewer errors and converted on nearly every one of their scoring chances to win 4-0.
READ MORE: Germany routs Portugal 4-0
“Losing 4-0 to them is like a slap in the face,” said Portugal fan Michael Rodrigues.
Within this sea of passionate Portugese fans was one brave German supporter.
“I’m very fine, I just arrived three days ago, I feel great,” said Florian Peters.
Bar owners on the Plateau are also a happy bunch.
The four-week-long World Cup tournament is giving their businesses a big boost.
It was standing room only at most establishments.
“Everybody has a drink at least,” said Lionel Paulo, the owner of Café Frappé on St. Laurent Boulevard.
“It helps, it’s good for the economy.”
Portugal’s next match is Sunday evening against the United States and bar owners are expecting even bigger crowds for that weekend match.
SEE MORE: Updated group standings and scores
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