Saturday, June 13, 2026 (Baidoa Online) -Football fever continues to sweep across Somalia as thousands of young people gather every evening in public squares, restaurants, sports centers, and community venues to watch World Cup matches on giant screens.
From Mogadishu to Baidoa, Galkacyo, Garowe, Hudur, and many other towns across the country, football fans are coming together in groups to enjoy the world's biggest sporting event. Large screens have been installed in several locations, creating a festive atmosphere where supporters cheer for their favorite national teams.
In Mogadishu, crowds have been filling popular viewing centers, with many fans wearing team jerseys and waving flags. Similar scenes have been reported in Baidoa, Galkacyo, Garowe, and Hudur, where football lovers have turned World Cup nights into community celebrations.
"This is more than football," said one young fan in Mogadishu. "It brings people together and creates excitement for everyone."
However, not all supporters are equally impressed with this year's tournament. Some young football followers believe the World Cup has lost some of the excitement and unpredictability that made previous editions memorable.
"People are still watching, but for me it is not as interesting as before," said a football enthusiast in Garowe. "The atmosphere is good, but the matches have not produced the same excitement I remember from earlier World Cups."
Despite differing opinions, attendance at public viewing events remains strong across Somalia. Business owners have also benefited from the increased crowds, with restaurants and cafés reporting higher numbers of customers during match days.
Sports analysts say football remains the most popular sport among Somali youth, and major international tournaments continue to unite communities regardless of club or national team loyalties.
As the World Cup progresses into its crucial stages, fans across Somalia are expected to continue gathering in large numbers to watch the remaining matches, hoping for dramatic moments, surprise results, and unforgettable football memories.