Taipei fans embrace World Cup final despite early kickoff

Taipei, July 20 (CNA) More than 100 football fans packed a Taipei bar early Monday, many dressed in national team jerseys, to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, in which Spain defeated Argentina 1-0.

The match, played at New York New Jersey Stadium, kicked off at 3 a.m. (Taiwan time).

Despite the early hour, reservations at Barcade, a basement sports bar in Taipei, were nearly full before kickoff.

The bar, which normally closes at 3 a.m., extended its business hours for the final, staff said.

Many fans hoped to see Argentina lift the trophy, believing the tournament could mark Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi's final World Cup appearance.

"¡Vamos, Argentina!" shouted Ava, an Argentina supporter who said she had watched every one of the team's matches during the tournament.

A longtime Messi fan, Ava said she hoped to see the Argentine captain win another World Cup title after leading his country to victory in 2022.

Other fans, dressed in red jerseys, said they supported Spain because of the team's style of play. Known for its formidable defense, Spain conceded just one goal throughout the tournament.

Chia-wei, a Taiwanese football fan, said she initially supported Argentina but switched her allegiance to Spain because "they've been playing too well."

She said waking up before dawn was worthwhile because it allowed her to watch the final with fellow fans.

Although football is less popular than baseball or basketball in Taiwan, Chia-wei said she enjoys following the sport because it is the world's most popular game.

She added that a strong turnout from local football fans could encourage more people in Taiwan to take an interest in the sport and help the community grow.

After a scoreless 90 minutes, Spain broke the deadlock in extra time when winger Ferran Torres scored in the 105th minute to secure a 1-0 victory.

Jessica, another fan at the bar, said the match held special meaning for her because she had spent the past two years studying in Spain.

"It became my second home," she said.

Having followed Spain's recent successes, including its UEFA Euro 2024 triumph, Jessica said watching Spain win the World Cup felt like celebrating a victory for her own family.

Despite Argentina's defeat, Ava said she had no regrets.

"I'm heartbroken, but Spain played really well," she said. "Argentina gave it everything they had."

The final was livestreamed in Taiwan by ELTA Sports and had drawn about 210,000 views on YouTube.

Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón received the Golden Glove award as the tournament's best goalkeeper.

France forward Kylian Mbappé won the Golden Boot after finishing as the tournament's top scorer with 10 goals.

The next FIFA World Cup is scheduled to be held in 2030.