How Bangladesh is gearing up for football's biggest festival

FIFA 26 just kicked off, and the Bangladeshi football enthusiast is going crazy about it. Things started slowly, finally picking up as more and more people got involved in the World Cup.

The country may not be part of the tournament, but Bangladeshi football fans' passion is hard to miss. From busy city markets to quiet village roads, preparations for football's biggest event have already begun. Colorful flags are being hung on rooftops, and jerseys are almost sold out in both offline and online stores. Football discussions about favourite teams are now part of daily conversation.

For many, the World Cup means more than just a sports event. It is a month-long celebration that unites football lovers through their passion for the game. Every four years, the tournament brings an exciting vibe throughout the country.

Neighbourhoods and streets come alive with the colours of different national flags, and fans proudly support their favourite teams. One clear sign of the approaching World Cup is evident in local markets. Sports gear shops are selling out of jerseys, scarves, hats, and flags for popular football nations multiple times.

Argentina and Brazil continue to lead sales, as in previous years, showing the long-standing rivalry between their supporters. However, jerseys from Portugal, France, Germany, Spain, and England are also catching the attention of younger fans.

Many supporters are not content with just buying a jersey. They are personalising their favourite jersey by printing the names and numbers of their favourite players.

Lionel Messi's famous number 10 and Cristiano Ronaldo's classic 07 shirts are the most-selling ones as fans are eager to show their loyalty. For shop owners, the World Cup season often becomes one of the busiest and most profitable times of the year.

The excitement goes beyond clothing. Large national flags are must have item during the World Cup across the country. In past World Cups, some neighbourhoods became known for massive flags that stretched over rooftops, roads, and open fields. Friendly contests often arise between supporters of different teams as they strive to display larger and more impressive flags than their rivals. While these displays are fun, they reflect the deep emotional connection many Bangladeshis have with their favourite football nations.

Social media is the hot place for World Cup-related debates. Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram are already buzzing with football-related content. Fans like to share predictions, discuss team selections, debate potential winners, and post photos of their new jerseys and flags. The online rivalry between supporters can get heated, but it adds to the tournament's festive spirit.

University campuses and schools are hotspots for football excitement. Many universities organise football-themed events, prediction contests, and group discussions leading up to the World Cup. Hostels and dormitories are the common gathering spots where friends watch matches together late into the night. The tournament creates memories that fans cherish long after the final whistle.

For many families, cheering for a football team is a tradition passed down through generations. Parents who grew up supporting Brazil, Argentina, Germany, or Italy often introduce their children to those same teams. As a result, football loyalties often become part of family identity. During the World Cup, households may find themselves split between supporters of different nations, creating playful arguments and friendly competition. These moments add to the tournament's unique charm.

The economic impact of the World Cup is evident throughout the country. Small businesses, street vendors, and printing shops see increased demand for football-related items. Restaurants and cafes usually attract bigger crowds during big matches, especially knockout games. Some businesses even roll out special promotions tied to the tournament, seizing the chance to engage with football-loving customers.

Perhaps the most astonishing part of Bangladesh's World Cup enthusiasm is how it crosses age, profession, and social backgrounds. Students, office workers, rickshaw pullers, business owners, and retirees find common ground in football. During the tournament, conversations that might focus on daily struggles often shift to match results, player performances, and predictions for upcoming games. Football becomes a language spoken by millions.

As the opening matches are approaching, supporters are keenly following team news, checking on player injuries, and discussing potential championship contenders. Markets are growing more colourful as the excitement continues to rise in the country.

Adding to the excitement is the possibility that this could be the final FIFA World Cup for football icons Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. For nearly two decades, these two superstars have dominated the sports arena. They have inspired generations of fans and built huge followings worldwide, especially in Bangladesh. In Bangladesh, their popularity goes beyond football. Many supporters grew up watching their matches, celebrating their wins, and passionately debating who the GOAT is. For this reason, the upcoming World Cup holds great emotional significance. Fans are eager to see the possible last appearance of both legends on football's biggest stage.

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