The 2026 FIFA World Cup final is just days away, set to pit Argentina against Spain in one of the most anticipated football matches of the year. While Belize did not qualify for the tournament’s final stage, that has done nothing to dampen the passion of Belizean football fans, who have already picked their allegiances and are gearing up for collective watch parties across the country. Local outlet News Five’s reporter Paul Lopez hit the streets and popular venues to speak with organizers and fans about their plans for the blockbuster matchup.
One of the most unique community viewing events is being hosted at Belize’s Life Church, where Pastor Corny Dueck explained the initiative grew out of his own sons’ lifelong love of the sport. “My sons are all into football, and from the last World Cup to now they’ve been crazy about the game, playing in local city clubs,” Dueck said. “As the final drew closer, we realized our church is all about building community and family connection. If people would otherwise be stuck watching alone at home, why not gather here for a family-friendly party to enjoy the match together?”
To add extra fun to the gathering, the church has planned a range of interactive activities for attendees. Organizers have secured an official replica of the 2026 World Cup match ball, and set up a 90-square betting grid, with each square corresponding to one minute of regulation play. Fans can pay a $5 fee to claim a square, marking the minute they predict the first goal of the match will be scored. The holder of the correct minute will win a prize, with a random wheel spin used to break ties if multiple participants pick the same minute. The church is also running a silent auction for signed memorabilia featuring star players from both finalist squads.
For fans who prefer a more traditional outing to bars, lounges or restaurants, new local venue Social Lounge is also preparing for a full house of football fans. Public relations representative George Jones noted that the venue has invested heavily in technology to deliver an unbeatable viewing experience, even for a sold-out crowd. “We’re one of the newest venues in the area, and we’ve loaded up on large-screen displays,” Jones explained. “No matter where you’re seated, every angle gives you a clear view of the game. We’ll open our doors at 1 PM on Sunday for fans to come in, enjoy great food and great company, and soak in the atmosphere. This is going to be a historic match, one that fans will talk about for years. No matter whether you’re here for Messi and Argentina or for Yamal and Spain, it’s a win for football fans, and that’s what we’re most excited for.”
Beyond organized public events, Lopez also spoke to casual fans across Belize to find out where they would be watching and who they were supporting. The overwhelming majority of fans polled threw their support behind Argentina, almost universally citing captain and global superstar Lionel Messi as the main draw. One fan said he planned to watch the match from his own home, picking up a couple of drinks to enjoy the game, and summed up his support simply: “Argentina of course, because of Messi, the greatest.” Another fan attending a public gathering said her group was “voting for Argentina all the way,” while a third fan at home simply answered “Messi” when asked who he supported, explaining that Messi is “the GOAT” (Greatest of All Time) of the sport.
Still, a small but passionate contingent of fans are throwing their support behind Spain, with many pointing to young Spanish star Lamine Yamal as their pick. One Spanish supporter joked when asked why he backed Spain over Messi’s Argentina: “Because Argentina the thief, Messi the thief in general. Because they deh thief, deh the thief my dog Lamine Yamal.” Other fans were equally vocal in their support, chanting “Go Spain, Yeah!” as Lopez interviewed them on the street.
This report is a transcript of an evening television broadcast from News Five, with Kriol language dialogue transcribed using a standardized spelling system for online readers.