Packed screenings and late-night gatherings to cherished memories and friendly rivalries, Goans are once again united by their love for football as the world's biggest tournament unfolds
Screenings at Blue Heaven restaurant in Margao.
Football has once again taken centre stage in Goa as the FIFA World Cup captures the attention of fans across the state. Flags ranging from Mexico to Germany and several other countries are displayed across cafes, restaurants, and open grounds. With special screenings across venues, friend groups getting together, and friendly rivalry with neighbours over which teams to support, World Cup fever in Goa feels almost like a community festival.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the largest edition in the competition's history. Hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the tournament features 48 teams and 104 matches. With more teams participating than ever before, fans are being treated to a packed schedule of football action spread over several weeks.
Yvonne Fernandes from Mapusa is eagerly looking forward to the France vs Senegal match. Recalling memories of watching World Cup games with her cousins and friends, she says, “Back then, it was always home screenings with all of us together. We would set up the living room and get excited over every moment. Sometimes, we would even cheer good tackles from the opposing team.” Laughter, loud cheering, and predictions were all part of the experience. “I think this collective passion for the sport has made us love football even more,” she adds.
While every fan has their own way of enjoying the World Cup, many also follow unique match-day traditions. “Before every match, I check the line-up and analyse what the coach is trying to do tactically. Every player has a unique role, and the team selection often reveals the game plan,” says Anand Govekar, a keen Spain supporter.
Almost every football fan has a memorable World Cup moment. For Anand, it is Zinedine Zidane's headbutt on Marco Materazzi in the 2006 final. “It was one of those moments where football and emotion collided. Zidane was having a great tournament, and it was his final professional match, so seeing such a legendary career end with a red card was unforgettable,” he says. Enrique Fernandes recalls Portugal's thrilling 3-3 draw against Spain in the 2018 group stage. “Cristiano Ronaldo scored a stunning hat-trick, including a late free-kick, and it remains one of the greatest individual performances in World Cup history,” he notes. For Yvonne, it was the dramatic shift in atmosphere during the France-Argentina final. “Mbappe turned the game around with two goals in two minutes, taking the match into extra time and eventually penalties. The atmosphere was unforgettable,” she says.
While old memories remain cherished, the World Cup continues to create new ones. Bryden Fernandes, who holds the screening at their Blue Heaven Restaurant and Bar in Margao, remarks how some customers come especially for the match. “We started screening major football matches this year. Match days often bring in a different audience of football fans who specifically come to watch the games. When these fans join our regular customers, the restaurant enjoys a lively atmosphere and strong turnout,” he notes.
The appeal of the World Cup extends far beyond the matches themselves. For many fans, the tournament serves as a reminder of football's unique ability to bring people together across cultures, borders, and beliefs. Enrique mentions how, for a few weeks, the world unites through a shared love for football. “A good example is the relationship between the United States and Iran, which has been marked by political tensions for decades. Yet Iran just played on US soil a few hours back against New Zealand,” he says, further adding, “Moments like these remind me that football is the most beautiful game in the world. It has a unique ability to connect people, create memories, and bring joy across cultures and nations.”
For others, the World Cup is not just about unity but also about witnessing history unfold on football's biggest stage. Marlon Sanvio Cardozo has been following the tournament since 2010. He describes football as "bread and butter" for Goans, while for him personally, the World Cup is a time when the entire world comes together through a shared love for the game. “Despite the controversies surrounding this World Cup, I still feel it will be a memorable one, considering it could be the last dance of some of football's greatest players,” he says. The tournament also brings back personal memories. “This year, I especially miss my grandfather, who passed away a few years ago. He was an ardent football fan and a passionate supporter of Portugal,” he adds.
For Goa, where football has long been woven into everyday life, the World Cup serves as a celebration of the state's enduring love for the beautiful game. For the next few weeks, many Goans will gladly sacrifice a little sleep to witness the drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments that only football's biggest tournament can provide. Even after the final whistle is blown and a champion is crowned, the memories and shared experiences of another World Cup season will continue to live on in Goa's football-loving communities.
