$3,000+ to attend World Cup? USMNT's knockout round match draws soaring ticket prices to Bay Area

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- World Cup action in the Bay Area is drawing crowds from around the world, with fans packing viewing areas and stadium events while ticket prices climb to record highs.

A match between Jordan and Algeria is set to take place at the Bay Area stadium, as fans gather throughout the day to take in the tournament atmosphere, regardless of which teams are playing.

"It's always been my dream for me to go to the World Cup. And we got this opportunity of North America, so we have to make the most out of it," said Taylor Melian, a USA fan visiting from Austin.

Visitors from across the country and beyond have traveled to the region, many simply looking for any opportunity to experience the event in person.

"We're young, broke college kids. We just graduated college. So we're looking for the cheapest, most affordable ticket that we can get. And that's how we stumbled upon this game," said Luel Kalub, who was visiting from Denver.

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But with confirmation that Team USA will play in the Bay Area on July 1, ticket prices have surged, with the lowest costing around $3,000.

"Not releasing all the inventory at once, but kind of sporadically, which is keeping the ticket prices extremely high, especially for match 81 in Santa Clara," said Scott Friedman of Ticket Talk Network.

Friedman said prices remain elevated because of strong demand from fans willing to pay.

"We're seeing what demand people are absolutely willing to get their wallets out, their purses out, and paying these astronomical prices," he said.

For many, the cost is worth it because of the significance of the experience.

"I am an American and I love my American roots. But there's such a community that makes it home. If you can't make it home, you can at least make it here," said Meebo Ciershe, a Jordan fan.

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Local organizers say the influx of visitors is benefiting the region, as gathering spaces expand to meet demand.

"San Jose is thriving right now. We are on the world stage. We are seeing everybody from across the globe come into San Jose to celebrate," said Frances Wong with Visit San Jose.

Fans say opportunities like this are rare and worth embracing.

"You never know what's going to happen. You never know when you're going to have such a big squad again. So I think this is the time to do it," Melian said.

The excitement was heightened as fans in the area witnessed a historic moment in the tournament, when Lionel Messi scored a goal that broke the record for the most goals in World Cup history.

As matches continue, fans and organizers alike say the energy and global attention surrounding the World Cup are transforming the Bay Area into a hub for the sport.