CHARLOTTE -- The World Cup has officially begun in Russia, with the host nation playing in the first matchup versus Saudi Arabia. A few people skipped work for the start at Charlotte-area bars, but the staff at Courtyard Hooligans in Uptown said Brazil’s first day had a better turnout.

• Hooligans owner Mark Krehbiel says they will take a hit due to absence of U.S. from tournament
• Jack’s House in Elizabeth explained their space is getting international attention
• The World Cup continues through July 15

"With only one game there's not a whole lot of incentive to take a whole day off of work,” said Hooligans owner Mark Krehbiel.

Also lacking incentive at Charlotte bars this year is the notable absence of the United States from the tournament. Krehbiel said they'll take a financial hit.

“Tremendously. At least on those three very large games that we're going to miss when the us would've had their group stage matches,” said Krehbiel.

Hoping to see the positive, the crew over at Jack’s House in Elizabeth explained their space is getting international attention:

“The British-American Chamber is going to be renting out the place, we've got a bunch of people from the German Society showing up,” said Charlotte Independence Managing Partner Jim McPhilliamy.

The World Cup continues through July 15.