Thousands throng the Esplanade for Spain–Argentina final
Football fever swept across Penang as thousands of fans gathered at the Esplanade to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 final on a giant screen, capping weeks of excitement that brought local communities together.
Supporters arrived hours before kick‑off, filling the waterfront with the teams' jerseys, flags and inflatable clappers as families and friends secured prime viewing spots.
Every attack, save and near-miss drew loud cheers, while the match’s only goal sparked jubilant celebrations.
Spain emerged champions after edging Argentina 1-0 in a closely contested final.
The decisive goal sent Spanish supporters into celebration, while Argentine fans applauded their team’s spirited campaign.
Beyond the match, the Esplanade took on a carnival atmosphere as children played football on the field, fans posed for photographs with themed props and groups celebrated late into the night.
Earlier in the tournament, hundreds of fans had also gathered at Fisherman’s Wharf in Jelutong for a public screening, cheering on their favourite teams in a similarly festive setting.
The rain did little to dampen the spirits of thousands of football fans gathered at the Esplanade in George Town for the live screening of 2026 FIFA World Cup Final.
Spanish tourists, proudly displaying their national flag, join local fans in a jubilant celebration at the Esplanade in George Town.
Fans in good spirits at the viewing session at Fisherman’s Wharf Food Court.
National Defence University of Malaysia student B. Tashan (right) showing off his football juggling skills to his friends on the grassy field at the Esplanade in George Town, as they waited for the FIFA World Cup 2026 live broadcast to begin.
