Hyderabadis Pull an All-Nighter for Football World Cup Final
Social media platforms saw posts from viewers sharing their experience, while some residents organised screenings in neighbourhood spaces using projectors.
Hyderabad:Late-night screenings of the Fifa World Cup final drew large crowds across Hyderabad, with fans gathering at public venues, pubs and eateries to watch the match between Spain and Argentina.
Screenings continued till early morning, with the final whistle at around 3.30 am. Several viewers likened the experience to staying awake through the night before returning home at sunrise.
At People’s Plaza, a large crowd attended the live screening, with firecrackers during breaks and key moments of the match. Light drizzle in parts of the city did not disrupt the event, and the weather remained pleasant.
Pubs, clubs and eateries remained open through the night, drawing groups of supporters. Sports outlets reported high demand for team jerseys, with Argentina’s No. 10 shirts selling out.
Social media platforms saw posts from viewers sharing their experience, while some residents organised screenings in neighbourhood spaces using projectors.
Minu Maria, a corporate employee, said, “I watched the final on a giant screen at Red Rhino in the Financial District amid a large crowd of supporters. Argentina’s defeat disappointed those of us wearing the team’s jersey and cheering for Messi, but the match was thrilling. The pub kept everyone engaged with activities during the breaks and offered attractive discounts to groups.”
She added, “We slept only after sunrise, so getting through the working day on Monday was difficult. Many of us struggled to keep our eyes open at our computers, but the experience was worth losing sleep over.”
Ashwin Jaiswal, a football fan, said, ““We watched the match at Air Live in Gachibowli. The organisers made excellent arrangements, while police personnel maintained a close watch to ensure security.”
The Hyderabad Restro Lounges Association said outlets saw good turnout following the extended hours. Its representative Ketan Agarwal said, “All the outlets recorded a good turnout. The guests enjoyed the match and left for home soon after it ended.”
