On a summer night four years ago, I encountered a young woman sobbing on a street corner in the Gaslamp District of downtown San Diego. I asked if there was anything I could do to help her. She said nothing could be done as her team was just eliminated from World Cup competition. That’s called passion, as soccer or non-American football is universally loved. The failure by most Americans to appreciate this sport is often put aside by its enthusiasts every four years. The atmosphere in South Africa is at a fever pitch level with anticipation to the start of the quarterfinal round. In downtown, there are plenty of places that will make your viewing of the World Cup a memorable experience. Whether you’re looking for a rowdy atmosphere, delicious food or beer overflowing from the tap, there’s a place for everyone to root their country onto victory. One of the best places to watch World Cup action is on the streets of Little Italy. I was fortunate enough to watch the 2006 World Cup Final (Italy vs. France) on JumboTrons that were set up at various points throughout the neighborhood. And you can’t help but get caught up with the pride and passion displayed from the residents celebrating their beloved country’s win. Chris Gomez, district manager of the Little Italy Association of San Diego, cannot guarantee another outdoor event of this nature for this year’s World Cup. But if Italy is fortunate enough to make a return appearance in the Grand Final, you might see a similar event again coordinated in a matter of days. “Our neighborhood has a great cultural mix (dominated by Italians, Mexicans and English) and you cannot help yourself but get caught up in the pride shown by all,” Gomez said. “Our local establishments are showing the games live and everywhere you go people are talking World Cup.” If such an event were to happen again, one suggestion is to get there early for big matches, as people stake out their spots all along India Street. You can expect to see Italy’s competitors hung in effigy from the neighborhood’s light posts. And if they repeat as champions, this could become the rowdiest party held this summer in San Diego. • With an excellent British menu and award-winning beer, Shakespeare Pub & Grille is one of the best locations in San Diego to take in all the action from South Africa. The atmosphere is lively, as soccer fans from all over the world come together here to cheer their countrymen on. Shakespeare can accommodate any party size, as they have a heated patio that overlooks the downtown skyline. All matches will be shown live, but there will be a $10 admission for selected World Cup contests. Management will credit your bill that day if your tab exceeds $10. Patrons will not have the opportunity to reserve tables as it’s a first come, first serve basis. They expect full capacity for most matches. • Another classic soccer meeting place is Dublin Square, an authentic Irish pub located in the heart of downtown. All of the World Cup matches are free to view, but expect to encounter an intense patriotic spirit from the patrons. Management is pleased to see a growing interest shown by all as the tournament progresses. The interior has the feel of a pub straight out of Ireland, as they offer a wide selection of craft beers and a menu that showcases a variety of Irish-American delicacies. Everyone raves about two breakfast items, Tullamore’s Irish Country Twist (corned beef topped with sunny-side eggs) or Irish Farm Platter (O’Brien potatoes smothered with eggs and melted cheese) that well-represent the true taste of Irish cuisine. — Thomas Conroy is a free-lance writer in San Diego who specializes in sports reporting.