Venues report boost
Euro 2024 excitement grips Baghdad as fans rally behind favorite teams
BAGHDAD – Enthusiasm for European football clubs is shaping Iraqi support trends for various national teams in the Euro Championship 2024. In Baghdad’s Al-Mansour area, Germany, France, Spain, and Portugal lead as fan favorites.
Hosted by Germany, the tournament kicked off in mid-June with 24 teams.
Local support in Baghdad seems concentrated on Spain, Germany, France, and Portugal, the latter aiming for its second championship title. However, due to the tournament’s format, not all four popular teams can reach the final, setting up potential clashes with England, the Netherlands, or Switzerland.
Ous Jamal, owner of Iwan Café, told 964media that the start of the Euro Championship significantly boosted patronage. “During the Italy vs. Spain match, every seat was filled; our café has seven screens and accommodates about 150 people. We anticipate an increase in viewership as the tournament advances, especially with strong support for Portugal, largely due to Cristiano Ronaldo,” he said.
Mohammed Basyuni, captain of the hall at Jakamja Restaurant and Café, noted that Portugal’s games attract the most viewers, primarily because of Ronaldo’s popularity. “Last Wednesday’s Portugal match drew significant attention, followed by Spain, while France and Italy garnered less,” he observed.
Mohammed Saad, a regular at Queen Café, pointed out that most patrons favor Germany, France, and Spain. “There are supporters of England and Italy as well, but they are fewer in number compared to the top three,” he mentioned. Holders Italy went crashing out earlier this week following a shock loss to Switzerland.
Ali Jabbar, a patron of Iwan Café, highlighted the influence of European league players on national team support during the Euro Championship. “People tend to support teams with well-known club stars, which explains the large backing for Spain, Germany, Portugal, and France,” he explained.