Thousands of England and Panama supporters filled the Meadowlands before Saturday’s World Cup match, bringing chants, songs and celebrations to the American Dream Mall before making their way to the stadium.

Panama fans filled ‘The Arena’ at the Mall for a pre-match party. Fans sang, ate, drank and even watched live dance performances.

“It’s been amazing. I have my friends with me, I’m here with my people and having an amazing time,” said Geraldine, a Panama supporter.

England supporters were just as enthusiastic, taking over the ‘Yard House’ bar and restaurant in the mall and even hanging banners representing clubs and supporters’ groups from back home.

For some supporters, attending the tournament required years of planning. Andy Milne, who is making this his 10th World Cup, even sold a house to help with yet another trip.

“Well, I took early retirement to go to the World Cup in Qatar,” Milne said. “My full pension doesn’t come through for another four years. My partner and I had always planned to sell this house, so it’s basically a pension pot. But we do have another house to live in.”