2018 World Cup Recap
The Thrill of the Goal
Words & Photos by Sandra Dahdah
The FIFA World Cup is enjoyed by a variety countries and countrymen worldwide. A multitude of languages collide to catch the thrill of the goal. The banter, the excitement, and the crazy, screaming fans, make it even more thrilling to watch no matter the perch. For East Austin, this year was no different. We joined the crowd of football fans rooting for their favorite teams and had a blast in the process.
For the past three world cups, Fado’s was that place to be. Observing people from all over the world gather there for the love of the game was exhilarating. Sadly, after 20 years, they had to close their doors. Some traditions aren’t always fun to break, but on to a new search for places to experience this year’s World Cup. Luckily, a few new favorites arose from the ashes, and most of them were located east.
Licha’s, Tokoba, La Matta, Justine’s, Native Hostel, Haymaker (to name a few) all opened their doors and hosted soccer fans supporting their country’s colors, sometimes even outside of normal business hours. “It’s been a great excuse to spend time with your friends during the day taking short breaks from work,” says Julien Renvoie, a Frenchmen residing in Austin.
“I love seeing people from all walks of life and cultures coming together to cheer on their favorite teams in a communal space,” enthuses fellow Austinite Matt Kreutz.
Most of the time these places are jam packed, energized, and the celebrations all different in their own way. When France recently won a game, fans watching at Justine’s played French celebratory music as Pierre (co-owner) passed out complimentary Champagne. For countries like Mexico, regardless of the outcome, the energy and excitement were always high. Traditional songs were sung throughout the game, and the beer buckets were always full. Some fans have their own traditions, and for Roberto Manzo, who brings his Mexican Flag to every game for the past four World Cups, “was hoping [he] didn’t have to put it away so early this year.”
England’s team, Three Lions, manager Garrett Southgate stated in a televised interview, “Our country’s been through some difficult moments recently in terms of its unity.” However, Southgate has been praised for his contributions in getting the team to this point and for bringing countrymen together ahead of the World Cup semi-final against Croatia.
Countries like Brazil, Argentina, Portugal, surprisingly didn’t make it as far as hoped. Regardless of the outcome, these teams playing outside of the usual norm definitely made the World Cup even more exciting to watch this year.
As the finals approach, the crowds are getting bigger, and the excitement is building. Catch a game if you can; after all, the World Cup only comes around every four years. And thank you to the bars and restaurants that enabled area fans such a memorable watching experience. Most definitely, a sincere thank you to Fado’s for the last two decades—we miss you already.
