They’re Back!! What a night in Cosmos Country. A sellout crowd at Hofstra’s Shuart Stadium welcomed back the storied New York Cosmos.

Life is Sweet TV was thrilled to be on the field for this historic home opener– and triumphant return. It was a night that was nearly 30 years in the making!

The evening kicked off with a ceremony honoring legendary soccer greats, including Pele and Carlos Alberto. They also honored the late Giorgio Chinaglia.

The Cosmos took on their old rivals, The Fort Lauderdale Strikers. The last time these two teams met was May 8, 1983… when the Cosmos defeated the Strikers in sudden death overtime. Last night, with a dramatic goal at the 92nd minute, The Cosmos won it 2-1.

It was a poetic, beautiful end to a night celebrating the beautiful game and The Cosmos return.

At a press conference after the team’s debut. Carlos Alberto and Shep Messing addressed the media.

“Believe in the Cosmos”, said Alberto.

Judging by the crowds and the excitement of the fans: They Believe!!