Derrick Etienne Jr. cheered in Paterson during World Cup watch party

PATERSON - When Derrick Etienne Jr.'s number appeared on the substitution board in the 81st minute of Haiti's FIFA World Cup match against Brazil, cheers erupted throughout Hinchliffe Stadium.For the several hundred gathered in Paterson on Friday night, that moment was what the watch party had been building toward all day.

The Paterson-raised winger entered the match for Jean-Ricner Bellegarde late in Haiti's group-stage contest against Brazil, becoming one of the few athletes from the city to compete on soccer's biggest stage.Every touch of the ball was met with applause at the Hinchliffe watch party as Etienne immediately brought energy and an attacking threat to Haiti's front line. The game was played in Philadelphia.

Many fans came to Hinchliffe for a personal reason: watching one of Paterson's own represent Haiti against one of the world's most recognizable soccer nations.People wearing Haiti and other national team jerseys cheered as the Paterson native entered the match on soccer's biggest stage.“It’s an amazing atmosphere,” said Carlos Ramirez, who wore a Brazil jersey.

“To be here for free and recognize an amazing achievement is special.”“Whenever Etienne touched the ball, you could hear how invested the crowd got,” Ramirez said. “We all wanted him to score!”

Fan Yury Meza said the event offered something television could not.“You don't have to be a fan of that country,” Meza said. “It’s important to be here with everyone and celebrate.”

A 45-year-old man from Haiti, who declined to give his name, wore his homeland’s soccer jersey.“We all love Etienne,” he said. “Even if he lost the ball, having one of our own in this position is more than enough.”

The player expressed appreciated the fan support.'Paterson has shown me so much love'"It's surreal to be recognized at such a historic field," Etienne said. "Paterson has shown me so much love, and it’s the main reason why I represent Jersey and Paterson so much."

Before kickoff, fans filled Hinchliffe stadium wearin