Telangana: FIFA Final Fever Grips Hyderabad
Pubs, microbreweries, clubs and bars that obtained permission to extend hours used the opportunity to create a festive atmosphere: Reports
HYDERABAD: Fans across the city are excited to watch the FIFA finals, with celebrations peaking in Cantonment areas where soccer craze runs high. Streets and roads have been decked with flags, banners and hoardings of favourite players, especially after Argentina’s entry into the finals.
Hyderabad holds a special place for Lionel Messi, who has visited the city and trained young players. “Fans are thrilled to watch Messi, as most of them grew up watching him. His coming to Hyderabad was a big gift for us. Soon after his visit, football regained its charm and even our team returned to the game,” said Dr Chiranjeevi Phanindra.
Eshita Nimje, a cyber security expert and national soccer player from Bhopal, said: “Football has always been close to my heart. Having played at the national level in school, my FIFA journey began in 2010 watching the World Cup with my father. 2026 was my first FIFA away from home, but I didn’t feel it on this amazing night. After 30 sleepless nights of football, they gave me the perfect way to celebrate the finale.”
City‑based fan club Corp Mallu, active on social media, initiated requests to government agencies for live screenings in public spaces. “While most cities were asleep, Hyderabad chose to stay awake. At 12.30 am, cafés, clubs, restaurants and pubs across the city were packed with fans draped in jerseys, chanting for every tackle, celebrating every goal and living every moment together. The FIFA final was more than a championship clash — it was the possibility of witnessing one of Messi’s final appearances on football’s biggest stage. History was unfolding, and no one wanted to experience it alone,” the group said.
They added: “What began as a conversation among a handful of enthusiasts soon revealed a much bigger story, as requests for common screening spaces poured in.”
Pubs, microbreweries, clubs and bars that obtained permission to extend hours used the opportunity to create a festive atmosphere. Anthony Lawrence of a pub at Gachibowli, said: “The place has been given a sporty look. Moreover, we are concerned about customer safety. During every break, our DJs announce safety rules — ‘Do not drink and drive’.”
