THE FIFA World Cup has always been about more than 90 minutes of football.
For many Sarawakians, this year’s tournament was about friendships forged over late-night kick-offs, unforgettable moments shared with loved ones and discovering a newfound love for the beautiful game.
From packed kopitiams in the early hours of the morning to living rooms filled with friends and family, the month-long spectacle united football fanatics and first-time viewers alike.
For 28-year-old Joanne Aren, the World Cup marked the beginning of an unexpected football journey.
The Kayan lass admitted she never considered herself a sports fan, let alone a football supporter.
“If you’d told me four years ago that I’d be at a kopitiam at 3am on a workday watching the World Cup with my friends, I’d say you were lying,” she said.
What began with football memes surrounding Erling Haaland soon grew into a genuine appreciation for the sport.
“The World Cup has this magical way of bringing people together. You don’t need to understand every rule or even know what offside means to feel like you’re part of it.
“Whether you’re a lifelong football fan or someone like me who initially only knew Declan Rice because I thought he was attractive, the World Cup welcomes everyone.
“It’s the thrill of last-minute goals, drama and seeing players represent their countries with such pride that makes it so special. I can’t wait to do it all again in four years.”
Meanwhile, 24-year-old Victor Liew backed Spain throughout the tournament, believing it was time for the European giants to reclaim football’s biggest prize after a 16-year wait.
The Lun Bawang supporter, who resides in Kuala Lumpur, said Spain deserved to lift the trophy after their performances throughout the competition.
“They earned it with the way they played throughout the tournament. It was a great World Cup and I really enjoyed it,” he said.
Another supporter, Martinus Njok Sebi admitted the tournament exceeded his expectations despite his initial doubts.
“I thought it wouldn’t be that exciting because of how it was promoted, but almost every match turned out to be entertaining. It was also great to see several underdogs make deep runs into the knockout stages,” he said.
The 24-year-old Iban-Kenyah and England supporter praised Spain’s teamwork while also paying tribute to Argentina and Lionel Messi’s remarkable run to another final.
“I’d like to congratulate Spain. They earned it because they played as a team. My favourite player is Rodri because defensive midfielders are often underrated.
“I also respect Argentina and Messi for reaching another World Cup final. Still, I’m proud England finished third and I’m excited about its future,” he said.
Although Spain lifted the trophy, for many Sarawakians the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be remembered not for who won, but for the memories made along the way – proving once again that football’s greatest stage has a special way of bringing people together.
