BETHESDA, Md. — After a tie against Portugal on Sunday, the U.S. remains a contender in the 2014 World Cup. That means soccer fans are heading to area stores for official World Cup gear.
The displays can’t be missed at most stores.
“It’s up front and center, where everyone can see it,” says Chad Thompson, general manager of the Modell’s in Bethesda, Maryland. “If you need something for the game this week, you better step in and get it.”
On Thursday, the U.S. team will take on Germany.
Thompson says U.S. soccer apparel isn’t staying on store shelves long.
“The away jersey, which is the red, white and blue one that we wore for the first game, sells extremely well,” Thompson says.
The away jerseys are sold out, Thompson says, but he hopes to get another shipment soon.
Usually during this time of the year, most sales at sports stores come from parents stocking up on stuff for their camp-bound kids. Items such as shoes, T-shirts and shorts are usually the focus, but the World Cup brings more people by than usual, says Thompson.
World Cup apparel for other countries such as Brazil, Germany and the Netherlands are popular as well. In all, Thompson’s store has gear from 12 countries.
Soccer balls have also risen in popularity with the World Cup. Brazuca balls, which were made specifically for the World Cup, are a hit. Also, there is a demand for official match balls, which cost $160.
Those who can’t find the apparel they’re looking for to wear Thursday may consider bags, scarves or pendants. The closer it gets to the game, the tougher it could be to find the desired clothing.
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