For those of you who have managed to bag and secure your trip to the land of the footballers (at least, for this year), we hope you enjoy Qatar. For those of us who are home, do not despair. Watching the 2022 FIFA World Cup in the confines of our own familiarity can still live up to the hype – with some basic preparations, that is.
Here are 5 things you can do to make watching the 2022 FIFA World Cup more exciting.
- Brush up on World Cup History (or the basics will do)
Brushing up on World Cup History is essential only because it adds to the overall experience. If this is your first World Cup and you’re falling behind on the fundamental knowledge, then it’s time to put on your history goggles. Fortunately, you’ll be in good hands. Articles and the ever-reliable Google will surely give you all the information you need. If this isn’t your first time and you’ve already known the basics, keep your eyes open for additional tidbits that will surely elevate the watching experience.
- Set up your devices
Unless you’re properly in Qatar, you will be subjected to timezones. Malaysia is a good 5-hour earlier than Qatar, which makes it so that matches will sometimes be during odd hours of the day. This is why it’s important to set up your devices – whether they be on-the-go livestream / radio, or a decked-out projector with crisp, high-definition displays, preparing your devices in advance will prevent wasted time trying to tinker before the match starts.
- Get your sports jerseys READY
Surely you’re not planning on wearing a normal t-shirt. Show your support by donning on your favourite team jersey, or simply wear a jersey showcasing your profound passion for the World Cup season – especially when you’ve done all that reading. Wouldn’t want it to go to waste, would we?
You can pick up a jersey by visiting the official FIFA portal, or by scouring out local markets for a fraction of the price (only if you’re not a stickler for authenticity).
- Invite Friends
The best thing about the football spirit is that you’re never really ‘forever alone’, especially when football is a huge fandom space – just having an interest in the sport will almost guarantee a connection with the next person.
If you’re not looking to invite friends at home (where you’ve set up your super cool space), then how about a chance of mingling at the local mamak? Malaysia boasts a wide array of eateries that cater to broadcasting the matches – local bars, pubs and the occasional restaurants, but no other space can capture the communal spirit like the local mamak where bonds can be forged through cheap roti, good cup of Nescafe and cheering on your favourite teams. 
- Prepare sufficient munchies
Of course, if you do decide to host, then make sure to prepare lots of food. Malaysians love their food: you can follow the Western tradition and go for chips, sodas, hot dogs and the likes – but you can also put your own Malaysian twist to it: kerepek pisang or banana chips, maruku, nuts and lots of caffeine to keep you and your mates awake.
All in all, the spirit of the World Cup is reaching all of us – and after the pandemic, it seems like things returning to normal calls for a celebration – especially when this will be the last Cup that certain players will take part in.
Be sure to stay safe, and remember good sportsmanship also extends to the audience!
Schedule: https://www.fifa.com/fifaplus/en/articles/match-schedule-en
