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The 2018 World Cup has provided us with countless memories. Who could forget Russia’s thrilling opening 5-0 victory over Saudi Arabia? Or Cristiano Ronaldo’s sensational performance in Portugal’s 3-3 draw with Spain? What about the embarrassment of Neymar’s playacting throughout the tournament? Or the fairytale of Croatia’s incredible journey to the final? The list goes on and on.
France’s thrilling 4-2 victory over Croatia in the final was a fitting end to what has been a breathless tournament. We have discovered that Killian Mbappe may be the heir to Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi’s throne, that Luka Modric is one of the most underrated central midfielders in the game today, and that Belgium’s ‘Golden Generation’ may forever be known as the ultimate ‘what if?’ team.
Away from the on-field action, this World Cup has also given us some unforgettable moments off the pitch. Fans from all 32 nations and beyond embraced this tournament like never before. From the rhythmic sounds and dancing of the African fans to the sheer passion of the Central and South Americans, this has truly been the fans’ World Cup.
Concerns about safety and security prior to the tournament feel like a long distant memory as Russia welcomed and embraced fans from all over the world. There were very few reports of trouble or fighting as opposing fans shared moments of delight and disappointment side by side. In fact, almost all coverage from the tournament was positive as Russians were praised for their hospitality and welcoming attitudes.
With so many different cultures, nationalities, and people congregating across the host cities in Russia, and billions watching the action at home, the last four weeks has thrown up some wonderful personal stories and moments of ecstasy, disappointment, and friendship.
As we sit back, trying to take stock and analyzing what has been a wonderful tournament, let’s look at some of the most memorable off-field moments which has made this World Cup more than just a football tournament.
Panamanian Pride
The small Central American nation achieved something extraordinary when qualifying for their first ever World Cup finals. Pipping the United States right at the death of their qualifying campaign to book their place in Russia, Panamanian pride was bulging as their team took to the field for their first group game against Belgium.
For some, this was too much to take. A video posted by Panama’s national broadcaster showed behind the scenes footage of two Panamanian commentators literally bursting with joy. The footage was taken during the playing of the Panamanian national anthem as the team lined up for their first ever World Cup match. The video quickly spread on social media, endearing the small nation even more to neutral fans and making Panama everyone’s second team.
A special mention must also go to the Panamanian support in general throughout their World Cup adventure. A particular highlight occurred during their 6-1 defeat against England during the group stages.
Having fallen 6-0 behind and seemingly on their way to a record World Cup defeat, Panama fans in the stadium continued to sing and support their team. The support was duly rewarded when their side scored and the stadium erupted as if Panama had just been crowned World Champions.
Fans Raise Egyptian Man in Wheelchair
If the spirit of the World Cup could be summed up in one picture it is this one. The photo above was taken during the ‘Fan Fest’ party on the opening day of the tournament. An arranged gathering, the ‘Fan Fest’ was designed to bring together fans from all competing countries in mass celebration for the beginning of the world’s biggest sporting event.
As fans from Columbia, Brazil, Senegal, and numerous other countries were cheering for each other as the team names flashed up on a big screen, an Egyptian fan in a wheelchair, Hassan Sedky, was preparing to shout for his home nation. Catching the attention of fans around him, Sedky was hoisted into the air by fans of several different countries as Egypt flashed on the big screen.
The 25-year-old Egyptian, who held a Brazilian flag as he was lifted up, described the truly wonderful moment to CNN:
It was completely spontaneous. One minute everyone is dancing and the next I was up on the air.
Japanese Respect and Politeness
Japanese fans had earned themselves a reputation as the most respectful fans during World Cup 2014 when they cleaned the stands and bathrooms after their group games in Germany. The Samurai faithful once again earned plaudits and respect in this World Cup as they cleaned the stadium in Rostov-on-Don prior to their departure.
What makes this even more incredible is that the Japanese fans had just witnessed their side throw away a 2-goal lead and lose to an injury time goal against Belgium in the round of 16. Through tears, sadness, and heartache, the supporters stayed true to their morals and ensured the stadium was left spotless. The fans had also done the same during their three group games.
Matching the respect shown by their fans, the Japanese team displayed incredible goodwill upon their exit from the tournament. Despite the tears flowing after the final whistle, the players and staff left the changing room absolutely spotless along with a note reading “Thank You” in Russian.
Mexican Fans Hoist South Korean in the Air
Perhaps the biggest shock of this World Cup was Germany’s elimination during the group stages. The Germans needed a win against South Korea in their final group game and to hope for a positive result in the fixture between Sweden and Mexico. With the Swedes comfortably beating Mexico 3-0, Germany knew a goal would put them through to the knockout stages, eliminating Mexico in the process.
The score remained deadlocked as the clock ticked into injury time, as the Germans began pushing everyone forward in search of that all-important goal. However, the Koreans broke twice, scoring two injury-time goals to eliminate the Germans and put Mexico into the round of 16 simultaneously.
Cue wild celebration from the Mexican fans who spotted a South Korean fan outside the stadium after the final whistle. The jubilant Mexican fans hoisted the Korean up into the air, throwing him up and catching him several times in celebration.
Back in Mexico, thousands partied outside the Korean embassy, lifting the Korean consul general to Mexico, Byoung-Jin Han, up onto their shoulders. The excitement reached fever pitch as Mexican airline, Aeromexico, announced a 20% discount on all flights to Korea via Twitter. The announcement reads “We love you, Korea! Our flights from Mexico to Korea have a 20% discount”.
England Fan Gets Premature World Cup Tattoo
World Cup fever hit England with a bang. From the English players convincing themselves they would go all the way to English fans chanting “It’s Coming Home!” at every opportunity, many fans across Britain truly believed that this would be their year.
However, an extra time goal by Mario Mandzukic in the semi-finals eliminated England from the tournament and extended their 52 years of hurt. While the pain of exiting the World Cup stings for a little while, it usually fades with time. But, not for some England fans.
England supporter, Jamie Richardson, was so convinced the Three Lions would go all the way he got a tattoo reading “England 2018 World Cup Winners” on his stomach. The man from West Yorkshire got the tattoo way back in the group stages after England’s 6-1 victory over Panama led to a ‘premonition’. While many would deeply regret such a move, Mr. Richardson told the Independent he had no regrets and will keep the tattoo no matter what.
Croatia’s World Cup Final Party
Croatia’s journey to the World Cup final was an extraordinary achievement. The small Mediterranean country, with a population of only 4 million people, had never reached a major tournament final since their acceptance into FIFA in 1992. However, two penalty shootout victories and a win in extra time meant Croatia could almost feel victory.
The euphoria of reaching a World Cup final spread from Moscow to Zagreb as Croatian fans put on a huge party in the hours leading up to the big match. In Zagreb, hundreds of thousands took to the streets with a synchronized dance and enormous Croatian flag. The scenes are unbelievable, just watch below.
While they missed out on lifting the trophy, Croatian fans remained upbeat and stayed to celebrate, jump, and dance long after the final whistle.
