The Meghalaya government has inaugurated a dedicated Football Fan Park in Shillong at the SRGT Parking Lot, offering supporters free access to watch FIFA World Cup 2026 matches live on giant LED screens. The initiative, launched as the tournament enters its decisive knockout phase, aims to unite football enthusiasts across the state where the sport enjoys immense popularity.
First-of-its-Kind Experience for Local Fans
The Fan Park has been warmly received by local football lovers, who described it as a first-of-its-kind experience in Meghalaya. A young fan told ANI: "Very nice experience coming here. I think this is the first time something of this sort has happened. What a wonderful way in which this has been done. People will have a really good time watching football. May the best team win. The football craze is amazing here in Meghalaya. We are expecting a huge crowd to come here and cheer."
World Cup Knockout Stage Begins
The Fan Park opens as the FIFA World Cup 2026 moves into the round of 32, with the knockout stage beginning on Monday. The first match features South Africa against co-hosts Canada. The tournament then shifts to a straight elimination format, culminating in the final at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19.
The expanded 48-team World Cup, which started on June 11 with co-hosts Mexico defeating South Africa 2-0, comprises 12 groups of four teams. The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed sides, advance to the Round of 32.
Teams Securing Knockout Berths
Among the teams that have already secured knockout berths are Brazil, Japan, Canada, Germany, France, Spain, Argentina, the Netherlands, Morocco, Belgium, the United States, Mexico, and Egypt. The remaining qualification spots are being decided through the final group-stage fixtures over the weekend.
The Meghalaya government's initiative is expected to draw large crowds throughout the tournament, providing a stadium-like atmosphere for fans to cheer for their favorite teams.
