Half an hour passed, and when it did, the final strains of the Spanish anthem faded into the Californian air, replaced moments later by Austria's as their supporters answered with a wall of red and white from the opposite end of SoFi Stadium.
It was time for the round of 32 affair.
Scarves hung high while hands rested over hearts in respect for the anthem that was being played.
Then, as quickly as it had begun, the ceremony passed.
Team photographs, followed by the captains' handshakes as well as the exchange of pennants, proceeded to follow, the usual pre-match pleasantries being observed.
The moment it was finished, the players peeled off their warm-up jackets and tossed them toward the benches before jogging into position as the officials carried out their final checks.
The knockout rounds had arrived, and there would be no second chances now.
