After more than five weeks of nonstop soccer, the World Cup is coming to a close this weekend as Argentina and Spain face off in the World Cup final Sunday.
While the two sides San Antonians most often back — Mexico and the United States — bowed out in the Round of 16, Sunday afternoon marks the last chance for another four years to take in the biggest sporting event on the planet with a crowd. And there are plenty of places in the city to do so.
The final has all the makings of a good one. It’s almost certainly Lionel Messi’s final World Cup game, and he’s taking on a Spanish team that features 19-year-old phenom Lamine Yamal, who looks like he could be up next as soccer’s global superstar.
The Pearl: The shopping and culinary district just north of downtown has been a hotbed of World Cup activity since the tournament started. Sunday’s final is being shown on the big screen at Pearl Park — bring your own chair. For fans looking to escape the boiling sun, it’s also playing indoors at Stable Hall, Boiler House and Sternewirth. Or, for an outdoor bar vibe, check out Otto’s Ice House.
The Rock at La Cantera: FIFA’s official watch parties in San Antonio have often taken place at The Rock. Sunday’s event starts at 1 p.m. for the 2 p.m. kickoff. Outside food isn’t allowed, but food will be available for purchase. Portable chairs and blankets are allowed. People interested in going can RSVP in advance online.
Local bars: Of course, most local sports bars will be showing the game. Popular options include the Friendly Spot Ice House, McIntyre’s in Southtown and near North Star Mall, River North Ice House, Broadway 5050, Stout House Grayson and La Gloria. But the easiest option is probably your local watering hole.
There’s nothing wrong with watching the game at home, either.
The game starts at 2 p.m. and is airing on Fox and Telemundo. The Spanish-language broadcast can be streamed on Peacock. The Fox broadcast is available on YouTube TV or with a Fox One subscription.