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Published : 19 Jul 2026, 05:48 PM
More than a month of World Cup action has boiled down to one final showdown as Argentina prepare to face Spain for football's biggest prize.
The two sides will meet at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium in the United States at 1am Bangladesh time on Monday.
But for fans in Dhaka, the contest has already begun. Neighbourhoods are abuzz with friendly arguments, while residents are arranging big-screen screenings and late-night celebrations.
In Mohakhali, 21-year-old rickshaw puller Robin proudly wore an Argentina jersey. A diehard supporter, he said he bought the shirt despite his modest means and had also hung an Argentina flag in his tiny room at the Mohakhali Sattola slum.
"Argentina deserve to be in the final. I'm a huge supporter. I bought this jersey from a street vendor and put up a flag in my room."
Badda resident Asif Ripon is preparing to watch the match with family and friends.
"I'm an Argentina supporter through and through. I think they'll win 2-1. Even if they don't, I have no regrets because I've already seen [Lionel] Messi lift the World Cup [in 2022]."
Government Titumir College student Faisal Ahmed, wearing a Spain jersey, backed the European champions.
"I've supported Spain since the days of Xavi [Hernandez[ and [Andrés] Iniesta. I hope they'll win the final."
Young people near Mohakhali's Niketan Bazar Gate have set up a giant screen for the match. Private-sector employee Romel Mahmud said he and his friends planned to cook together before kick-off.
"Some support Argentina, others different teams. Once the match starts, the banter begins. I hope Spain win."
Another resident, Md Hasan, said Brazil's early exit had shifted his allegiance.
"Brazil are out, so I'll support whoever plays against Argentina. That means Spain."
In Malibagh, Muhammad Asaduzzaman said he had bought Argentina jerseys for himself and his young son, adding he believed Argentina would become world champions.
Banani resident Alauddin Mahmud said his wife supports Argentina while he backs Spain, turning the final into a lively household rivalry.
As in previous tournaments, Dhaka has embraced the World Cup since it kicked off on Jun 11, with neighbourhoods installing giant screens and fans buying jerseys, wristbands, customised glasses, flags and handkerchiefs throughout the 39-day football festival.
