Academica Sports Club was the setting for the World Cup Semi-Final game between Portugal and France. Portugal had not competed in the World Cup Semi-Finals since 1966, and everyone was on hand to cheer their team to victory. Located on South Main Street, the club is a favorite gathering place for Azorean immigrants who want to keep up with the soccer world and stay connected with the old country. (According to Psychologist Daniel Wann, Ph.D. "...whether their team wins or loses, sports fans are more psychologically healthy than those who don't follow sports.") The club, which also runs a restaurant open to the public, provides a traditional social setting much like the clubs in San Miguel and serves a typical Portuguese menu. The restaurant is currently closed for renovations, but the bar is open.
 

(Top row, left) Joe Americano expresses his displeasure when France scores the only point, a penalty kick, during the first half hour of the game. (Middle row, left) Academica Sports Club manager John Medeiros comments that this is the first World Cup Semi-final game that Portugal has competed in since the club opened in 1970. They last competed in 1966 against Bulgaria. (Middle row, right) Club manager John Medeiros leads the crowd in a cheer for Portugal as bartender Val Resendes watches. (Bottom row, left) WLNE Channel 6 news reporter Jim Hummel interviews one of the fans. (Bottom row, right) A disappointed Gil Correiro expresses his sadness over the loss of the game to France and the chance to go onto the finals.