Australia's World Cup team makes Oakland its base
Australia's men's soccer team is using the Oakland Roots and Soul practice facility as its World Cup base camp. The stay is bringing public events, restaurant promotions, watch parties and a possible boost for local soccer venues.
The Socceroos chose Oakland as their temporary home while the World Cup begins June 11 across the United States, Mexico and Canada. City officials, Oakland sports groups and fans welcomed the team at a June 3 community training session that drew about 900 people.
Oakland businesses and sports groups are building events around the tournament. Local restaurants are offering Australian inspired menu items, the Roots plan a June 17 fan event at the Coliseum, and the East Bay Soccer Trail is helping fans find watch parties, food and hotels through the July 19 final.