In late-1990s Kerala, a young girl wakes at night to the sound of the television. She discovers her father watching football while drinking tea to stay awake. Soon two cups appear as the World Cup becomes a shared experience. She observes her usually calm father display strong emotions ranging from joy to disappointment. Around that period she displays an Argentina flag.
Nearby, a boy grows up playing pretend penalty shoot-outs with his father, who mentions players such as Diego Maradona and Gabriel Batistuta. Despite surrounding interest in Latin American teams, the boy supports England after Michael Owen’s goal in the 1998 World Cup. This becomes an early football memory, leading him to follow English clubs.
Over time he reads about football culture in Argentina and develops admiration for its intense passion and notable players. Years later the girl and boy meet and marry; their first shared interest is Argentine midfielder Juan Román Riquelme. When Argentina wins the World Cup, the woman avoids watching the penalty shoot-out, believing that viewing brings bad luck.
This account reflects one family’s experience and similar stories across Kerala and other football-interested parts of India. Couples connect through online football discussions, while parents, children and friends treat the FIFA World Cup as a month-long bonding event. Dormant messaging groups reactivate through shared interest in the tournament.
With the event scheduled to begin on June 11, preparations are starting slowly in Kerala. The delay follows recent state elections, global tensions and the inconvenient broadcast times across host nations. For the first time 48 teams will compete, and the tournament is co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
In an era of constant sports coverage, expectations of lengthy pre-tournament excitement may be unrealistic. Local shops in Kozhikode report that interest will rise nearer the event. Stores are preparing stocks of replica jerseys, with Lionel Messi designs proving most popular. Electronics retailers anticipate increased demand for televisions and subscriptions.
Fan groups plan motorcycle processions that support nearby businesses. Large images of prominent players will appear in public spaces. Homes and vehicles may be decorated in national colours. Hair salons expect requests for styles associated with star players.
