More than 84,472 concert goers turn out for Thursday’s show

U2 blasted the Giants Stadium attendance record Thursday night with 84,472 fans coming out to see the Irish rock band’s sold out show. The previous record was held by Pope John Paul II after his visit to the stadium in 1995 (82,948).

The significance of the historic feat was not lost on lead singer Bono.

“News just in,” said Bono from the stage near the end of the night. “We’ve broken every record for attendance in this stadium — including the Pope. Sorry Bruce — we know it’s your birthday and all.”

Later, Bono added, “I know they’re knocking this place down … we probably won’t be here again before the wrecking ball but it was a magic place for us as well as the Giants.”

U2 360 Tour continues with dates in Washington, Charlottesville, Raleigh, Atlanta, Tampa, Dallas, Houston, Norman, Phoenix, Las Vegas and Los Angeles before finishing the year off at Vancouver’s BC Place Stadium.