Scene & Herd: Soccer at Ernie's
A lively scene unfolded between gasps, yells, and a few rounds of beer as fans of the FIFA men’s World Cup gathered at Ernie’s Tin Bar outside Petaluma to watch the Mexico-South Korea game on Thursday, June 18.
Petaluma sisters Elizabeth Kim and Lisa Bell came straight to Ernie’s to watch the game with their niece and nephew, who had just flown in from Washington, D.C.
“I’m here to represent Korea,” said Bell, donning a dark blue hat with the South Korean flag on one side. As she watched, she texted back and forth with her daughter, who was at a watch party in KoreaTown in Los Angeles, she said.
The Korea fans sat side-by-side with a group of about ten fans rooting for Mexico, all eyes glued to the TV screens.
Fans gather at Ernie's Tin Bar on Thursday June 18, 2026, to watch the World Cup match between Mexico and South Korea. Mexico scored in minute 50 to end with a final score of 1-0. (JENNIFER SAWHNEY/PETALUMA VOICE PETALUMA VOICE ©2026)
“It’s so cool to see everyone come together,” said Kim. “It’s so global.”
Mexico fans – including Marcos Chavez, who said he’s been visiting the Tin Bar for more than 15 years – were easy to spot in their green-and-black jerseys among other regulars in non-sports garb.
Behind the bar were Chris Nardone and Katie Dennett, pouring cold beers while reverently checking on all the guests.
Ultimately, Mexico defeated South Korea 1-0, securing first place in Group A.
“It was a great game,” Bell said with a mostly full glass of pilsner in hand. “Both teams fought ‘til the end. But Mexico prevailed.”
After the joy of the final score settled, some of the Mexico fans leaned over and offered “sorry, Lisa,” “great game,” and a few heartfelt hugs.
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