Economic impact of World Cup hosting

Hosting World Cup matches in Toronto has resulted in a marginal economic impact, according to recent data. While international tourist spending has seen an increase in certain categories, overall spending, including that of locals and domestic tourists, has only slightly surpassed the rate of inflation. This assessment comes from data released by payments processing company Moneris.

Victor Matheson, an economist specializing in the sports industry’s economic impact, suggests that the presence of foreign tourists may have displaced regular visitors. This displacement could mean that the economic benefits of hosting six World Cup games have been minimal. Matheson, a professor of economics at College of the Holy Cross, noted that the best-case scenario is that domestic tourism and business travelers are displaced to later in the year. The worst-case scenario, he explained, is that overall spending is pretty much a wash, making the hosting an expensive endeavour for Toronto and Vancouver.

Moneris data from June 12 to June 26 indicates that total spending at Toronto bars and restaurants increased by three percent compared to the same period last year (June 13 to June 17, 2025). Spending by foreign tourists, identified by foreign-issued credit and debit cards, at these establishments rose by 34 percent. Overall spending also saw increases in groceries, mass merchandisers, and hotels, but a decrease in apparel.

Hotel occupancy data from the Greater Toronto Hotel Association showed that for the week ending June 20, occupancy was 72 percent, a decrease from 88 percent in the same week the previous year.

Comparison to other major events

The economic impact of the World Cup in Toronto has been less significant compared to other major events, such as Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. Sean McCormick, Moneris’s vice president of business development and data services, noted that the Eras Tour led to 90 percent increases in apparel sales and substantial rises at bars and restaurants. McCormick described Taylor Swift as a phenomenon, contrasting it with a Panama versus Ghana match.

Despite many downtown bars and restaurants being busy during World Cup games, the head of Restaurants Canada, Kelly Higginson, questioned whether the city’s role as a host provided a significant boost. Higginson pointed out that on game days, some downtown businesses, particularly those without a sports focus, experienced a decline in their usual traffic due to office closures, and did not attract enough soccer fans to compensate.

Some businesses that were busy during games would likely have been busy regardless of where the games were played, according to Higginson. Many restaurants and bars showing games are busy even when matches are held in Mexico or the U.S., which are co-hosting the 2026 World Cup alongside Canada.

Pedro Antunes, chief economist at Signal 49 Research, offered a more optimistic view, suggesting that foreign spending might have helped stabilize spending in some categories. Antunes acknowledged the possibility of crowding out but noted that the Canadian economy had been weak before the World Cup, with Canada’s opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 12.

Business sentiment and expectations

Studies on the economic impact of large football tournaments have yielded mixed results, with some showing no increase and others indicating up to a three percent rise in consumer spending. Economists suggest that increased spending on World Cup tickets, merchandise, and services might lead to reduced spending on other goods, assuming household budgets remain constant. An overall increase in consumption would require income growth driven by demand for services supporting World Cup activities.

Research from Germany’s Ifo Institute for Economic Research, conducted by Jonas Hennrich and Klaus Wohlrabe, examined the impact of football championships on business sentiment and expectations. Their study, covering eight World Cups and nine European Cups from 1991 to 2024, found that business sentiment does not change in the months surrounding a tournament. However, expectations do.

In the six months leading up to a tournament, expectations tend to be slightly more pessimistic, as companies have not yet factored in the event’s impact. This includes host countries, which incur most of the costs and disruptions. Two months before the event, expectations improve, with predictions of a better economy. This effect is short-lived, with expectations returning to their original level six months after the tournament.

European Cup events have shown a stronger effect on European businesses than World Cups, with improvements in both current sentiment and expectations. These responses are more pronounced for manufacturing firms compared to those in trade or services. The largest jump in expectations occurred when Germany hosted the 2006 World Cup and when it won the 2014 World Cup, despite that event taking place in Brazil. The study’s findings suggest that while firms’ assessments of their current business situations rarely respond to tournaments, expectations can improve for a period after the event, as seen with Canada’s elimination game against Morocco.

Source: thestar.com

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France’s commanding performance

France, a team widely considered a favourite for the World Cup, has demonstrated a commanding presence in the knockout stages, emerging from a series of tightly contested matches with a notable victory over Sweden. While other nations like Brazil, Canada, and Norway have secured their progress with late goals, and Morocco and Paraguay advanced through penalty shootouts, France showcased a performance marked by order and dominance.

The team’s strong form has been evident since the tournament began, having won all three of their group stage matches, a feat matched only by Argentina and Mexico. Their offensive power was also highlighted by a significant goal tally, equalled only by the Netherlands and Germany, both of whom are no longer in the competition.

The recent match against Sweden, which included several Premier League players in its starting lineup, was described as France’s most menacing display yet. The French team recorded 25 shots on Sweden’s goal, with 12 on target, underscoring their offensive pressure. Kylian Mbappe contributed two more goals, setting a new record for the most knockout goals in the competition’s history.

Didier Deschamps, the French coach, acknowledged Mbappe’s performance, with Mbappe himself embracing Deschamps on the touchline after the coach’s return to the competition following a personal bereavement. Sweden’s coach, Graham Potter, noted France’s supremacy, stating that even a perfect performance from his side would likely not have been enough to overcome the French team.

Key players and tactical approach

A central figure in France’s recent success has been playmaker Michael Olise, who effectively utilized the space provided by Sweden’s defensive setup. Olise’s ability to distribute the ball across the field, combined with the speed of Ousmane Dembele and Bradley Barcola, and Mbappe’s presence through the middle, allowed France to control the game. Thierry Henry, a French football icon, described Olise as France’s “Most Important Player,” complementing Mbappe’s role as the “MVP.” Henry, who previously coached Olise, praised his unique vision on the field.

Barcola, who replaced Desire Doue in the starting lineup for the Sweden match, also made a significant impact, scoring France’s second goal from an assist by Olise. These younger players, including Olise, Barcola, and Doue, are part of what Deschamps refers to as the “oxygenation” of the French squad, bringing new energy to a team that reached the final in Qatar. Notable players from the 2022 final, such as Hugo Lloris, Raphael Varane, Antoine Griezmann, and Olivier Giroud, are no longer in the starting lineup, replaced by a new generation of talent.

The depth of the French squad is further highlighted by the fact that the absence of Rayan Cherki, a standout player in the Premier League last season, has not significantly impacted the team’s performance. Sweden’s forward, Viktor Gyokeres, observed that France’s players rotate effectively and possess strong connections, making them a formidable opponent due to their quality and movement.

Path forward for France

France’s route through the tournament appears favourable, with a schedule that has largely kept them in the north-east corridor of New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Boston. This familiarity with the locations, including MetLife Stadium where they have already played twice, could be an advantage. The team is driven by a desire to reclaim the World Cup after their disappointment in 2022 and to provide a fitting farewell for Coach Deschamps.

The next challenge for France is a match against Paraguay in Philadelphia on Saturday, July 4. Following this, they are set to face the winner of the match between Morocco and Canada in the quarter-finals in Boston. Potential semi-final opponents could include Spain, Portugal, Croatia, Belgium, or the United States, with encounters against Brazil, Argentina, or England only possible in the final. Former England international Ian Wright questioned who could stop France, given their dominant performances from the outset of the tournament.

The match against Sweden was played in warm and humid conditions at MetLife Stadium, with a crowd of 80,663 in attendance. Mbappe, after scoring his second goal, celebrated with Deschamps, who had returned to the team after attending his mother’s funeral. Mbappe’s 10 knockout round goals surpass previous records held by Brazilian greats Leonidas and Ronaldo.

Source: nytimes.com

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Canada is set to face Morocco in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after Morocco secured a 3-2 victory over the Netherlands on Monday night. This upcoming match marks a significant moment for Canada in its third FIFA World Cup appearance. The game is scheduled for Saturday.

Morocco, currently ranked sixth in FIFA world rankings, advanced after a dramatic penalty shootout against the Netherlands, which is ranked seventh. Both teams entered their Monday night clash undefeated, making it the first top-10 matchup of the 2026 World Cup tournament. Midfielder Ismail Saibari scored the winning goal during the penalty kicks.

Morocco’s Historic Run and Previous Encounters

Morocco has been on a record-breaking journey, becoming the highest-scoring African nation in tournament history. They have also set a record among African teams for the most World Cup victories. Their advancement from Group C marks only the third time an African nation has reached the knockout stage of a FIFA World Cup.

In the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Morocco finished with the same number of points as Brazil in Group C but placed second due to Brazil’s higher goal differential. The team went on to defeat Spain and Portugal in the knockout rounds before falling to France and then Croatia in the third-place game, achieving the best result for an African team in World Cup history.

Canada and Morocco last met during the group stage of the 2022 FIFA World Cup on December 1, 2022, in Doha, Qatar, where Morocco secured a 2-1 win. In that match, Morocco took an early 1-0 lead in the fourth minute after a play involving Canadian goalkeeper Milan Borgan and defender Steven Vitoria allowed Hakim Ziyech to score. Approximately 20 minutes later, Youssef En-Nesyri extended Morocco’s lead to 2-0 with a pass from captain Achraf Hakimi.

Canada found some life late in the first half when Sam Adekugbe‘s cross attempt resulted in an own goal by Morocco’s Nayef Aguerd. Canadian captain Atiba Hutchinson nearly equalized in the 71st minute, with his header hitting the crossbar, a play that a VAR check confirmed was inches from crossing the goal line. Despite controlling 59 percent of possession, Canada did not register a shot on net in that game.

Changes and Expectations for the Upcoming Match

Since their last encounter in 2022, both teams have undergone significant changes, including new managers. Jesse Marsch took over for John Herdman as Canada’s manager in May 2024, while Mohamed Ouahbi replaced Walid Regragui for Morocco earlier this year. The team rosters have also seen considerable shifts.

Morocco’s squad for this World Cup includes nine players from their 2022 semifinal run, such as Achraf Hakimi and Montreal-born goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. New additions include Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz and PSV Eindhoven attacking midfielder Ismael Saibari, both of whom have family ties to Morocco. Saibari has scored three goals for Morocco in this World Cup, with Diaz contributing two assists. Other newcomers include Fulham defender Issa Diop, PSV Eindhoven defender Anass Salah-Eddine, and 18-year-old Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi.

Canada’s 26-man roster features half of the players who participated in the 2022 World Cup. This includes defenders Alistair Johnston, Derek Cornelius, Alphonso Davies, Richie Laryea, and Joel Waterman; midfielders Stephen Eustáquio, Ismaël Koné, Tajon Buchanan, Liam Millar, and Jonathan Osorio; forwards Jonathan David and Cyle Larin; and backup goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair.

Both nations have shown improvement over the past four years. Morocco, now ranked sixth globally, won the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Canada has risen to 30th in the world rankings and achieved a fourth-place finish at the 2024 Copa America. Canada advanced to the Round of 16 after finishing second in Pool B, which included a 6-0 victory over Qatar for their first men’s World Cup win. They also drew 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina and lost 2-1 to Switzerland.

Despite Canada being seen as an underdog, Morocco manager Mohamed Ouahbi acknowledges the strength of the Canadian team. Ouahbi stated that Canada should not be underestimated, emphasizing the need for his team to rest and prepare. He also mentioned that while his team believes they are unstoppable when playing their best, no team is unbeatable. The upcoming match will be the fifth time Canada and Morocco have faced each other in men’s soccer, with previous encounters including a 3-2 loss for Canada in October 1984, a 1-1 draw in June 1994, and a 4-0 defeat in October 2016.

Source: globalnews.ca

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Paraguay has declared a national holiday to commemorate its recent World Cup victory against Germany, a result that propelled the South American team into the round of 16. President Santiago Peña announced the holiday for Tuesday, following the team’s surprising win on Monday.

The match, held in Foxborough, Massachusetts, saw Paraguay triumph over the four-time world champions in a penalty shootout, ending 4-3 after the game concluded 1-1 following extra time. This outcome is being recognized as one of the most significant upsets in World Cup history.

President Peña shared his sentiments on social media, stating that the entire country was celebrating. He highlighted the team’s representation of the national identity, emphasizing grit, faith, and the strength of people who persevere. The decree, also shared by Peña, underscored that the victory transcended sports, justifying a nationwide celebration and noting that the government could not remain indifferent to such a substantial achievement. The declaration aims to facilitate the gathering of all Paraguayans to celebrate this historic day.

A memorable upset

José Canale, who had not started in his two previous appearances for Paraguay in this World Cup, made his first start a memorable one. He scored the winning goal in the first sudden-death penalty kick, contributing to the 4-3 shootout victory. Goalkeeper Orlando Gill also played a crucial role, making two key saves during the shootout.

This win marks a significant achievement for the landlocked South American nation, which has a population of 7 million and is surrounded by football powerhouses like Argentina and Brazil. Canale expressed the team’s deservingness of another game, highlighting their unity and the need to demonstrate their true capabilities. Germany, ranked 10th globally, missed three of their six penalty attempts, with Jonathan Tah sending his shot high over the crossbar in the sudden-death round. This miss set the stage for Canale‘s decisive penalty.

Earlier in the shootout, German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer had saved an attempt by Fabian Balbuena, which could have secured the win for Paraguay. During extra time, Tah believed he had scored a go-ahead goal in the 102nd minute from a corner kick by Nathaniel Brown, but officials disallowed it after a video review, determining that Waldemar Anton had pushed Gill to the ground before the shot.

Paraguay played without defender Omar Alderete, who sustained an injury in their previous 0-0 draw against Australia, leading to Canale starting in his place. The Round of 32 match ended 1-1 after extra time. Julio Enciso gave Paraguay the lead with a header late in the first half, but Kai Havertz equalized for Germany in the 52nd minute.

Gill reflected on the victory, stating that the team had meticulously analyzed every opponent player and detail, which enabled him to save two penalties. He dedicated the win to the people of Paraguay. Paraguay, ranked 41st by FIFA entering the match, was considered a significant underdog, making their victory the biggest upset of the 2026 World Cup.

Historical context and future prospects

This victory marks only the second time Paraguay has advanced beyond the group stage in a World Cup. Their previous advancement was in 2010, when they defeated Japan on penalty kicks in the round of 16 before being eliminated by eventual champions Spain in the quarterfinals. Germany, in contrast, had a strong record in penalty shootouts in major tournaments, winning six of seven, including six consecutive victories since their loss to Czechoslovakia in the 1976 European Championship final. German coach Julian Nagelsmann acknowledged that the result was not sufficient for German football.

The last World Cup knockout game for Germany was the 2014 final in Brazil, where they defeated Argentina 1-0 to secure their fourth title. However, they were eliminated in the group stage in the last two tournaments. Havertz expressed disappointment, noting that the team had significant plans for this World Cup and found it challenging to create chances and maintain pace against Paraguay.

Paraguay broke the initial deadlock in the 42nd minute with precise ball movement. Miguel Almiron passed to Matias Galarza, who then crossed to an unmarked Enciso, allowing him to head the ball past Neuer. Germany‘s equalizer came in the second half when Havertz redirected a cross from Florian Wirtz past Gill. Despite scoring 10 goals in the group stage, Germany struggled against Paraguay‘s 4-5-1 formation, maintaining 78% possession in the first half but failing to convert it into more goals.

Paraguay is now set to face the winner of Tuesday’s match between France and Sweden in the Round of 16 on Saturday in Philadelphia. A win in that match would send Paraguay back to Foxborough for the quarterfinals on July 9.

Source: nbcnews.com

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The World Cup in Vancouver has become a stage for both national pride and the expression of dual loyalties among Canadian citizens. Fans have gathered to support Team Canada while also cheering for their countries of origin, creating a unique atmosphere of collective enjoyment.

Alex Garcia, a 26-year-old construction worker, exemplifies this sentiment. He wore two jerseys at Vancouver’s FIFA Fan Festival: the green of his native Mexico and the red of Canada. Garcia, who is a dual citizen, expressed his happiness at experiencing the World Cup in Canada while celebrating his Mexican heritage. He watched Canada play Switzerland and then celebrated Mexico‘s 3-0 victory over Czechia.

Sociology professor Neil Armitage of the University of B.C., who has researched football spectatorship, noted that the World Cup allows Canadians to display a “wholesome nationalism.” He contrasted this with what he described as the “brash” nature of American nationalism and the historical ties of British nationalism. Armitage suggested that Canadian patriotism is built on support, fairness, and goodness.

Community Spirit at Fan Festivals

The spirit of collective enjoyment was evident at the Granville Island Watch Party in Vancouver, where fans gathered to watch Canada’s match. The event emphasized a family-friendly environment, with site manager Don Robinson stating that the real VIPs were those who arrived early and waited patiently. Crew member Akshat Makwana reported turning down cash offers from latecomers, reinforcing the event’s policy against special treatment.

The watch party, which had a capacity of 1000 people, opened an hour early due to the large crowds. Ryan Lima, a crew member, observed that Canada games were the busiest but not the most rowdy, noting that the atmosphere remained positive. Robyn Woolgar, the site’s risk assessment specialist, found that her main tasks involved tending to dog bowls and ensuring people understood the designated areas for pets, indicating a calm environment with few other risks.

Jan Klompje, who wore a South Africa jersey, experienced no negative reactions from Canadian fans. His wife, Lauren Klompje, mentioned that their 7-year-old son, Ilan, supported Team Canada, reflecting their family’s dual connection after living in Canada for 18 years.

Celebrating Diverse Roots

Many fans at the World Cup viewing events expressed joy in their dual identities. Pedro Jessen, 38, who immigrated from Brazil six years ago, described watching both the Canada and Brazil games as the “best day ever.” He felt “fully Canadian” during Canada’s match against Switzerland and then “fully Brazilian” an hour later as he watched Brazil defeat Scotland 3-0.

Noor Kamel, a Burnaby resident born in Yemen who also lived in Qatar, wore a Qatari flag as a sash while cheering for Canada. She emphasized that for her, the game was about celebrating diversity and the joy of the sport, rather than politics. She stated, “It’s just a game bringing everyone together, that’s it.”

The phenomenon of dual loyalties was also highlighted by Amr Shehata, a Canadian-Egyptian who immigrated to Vancouver about 12 years ago. Watching Egypt play New Zealand, he humorously expressed a hope that Canada would not meet Egypt in the tournament, as it would create an “identity crisis” for him. Canada has advanced to the round of 16, while Egypt is set to play Australia in the round of 32.

Source: halifax.citynews.ca

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Morocco defeated the Netherlands 3-2 in a penalty shootout on Monday, securing their place in the World Cup round of 16. The match, which took place in Monterrey, ended in a 1-1 draw after extra time, leading to the decisive shootout. This victory sets up a knockout stage encounter with co-hosts Canada.

The atmosphere was electric following Morocco’s win. In Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city, a coffee shop popular with fans erupted in cheers as Ismael Saibari converted the winning penalty. Celebrations quickly spilled into the streets, with fireworks, blaring horns, and Moroccan flags visible deep into the night. Even with a workday ahead, dozens of fans gathered on a main boulevard around 5 a.m. local time, dancing and chanting, “Canada, we’re coming for you.”

Match Details and Key Moments

The dramatic contest saw the Netherlands take the lead in the 72nd minute when Cody Gakpo scored. Gakpo, playing days after a personal loss, was visibly emotional after his goal. The Dutch appeared to be heading for victory, but Morocco found a late equalizer. Substitute Chemsdine Talbi delivered a cross from the left, which Issa Diop headed past the goalkeeper in stoppage time, sending the match into extra time.

Before the first goal, Morocco had created several opportunities. Goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen made crucial saves, denying Ayoub Bouaddi’s close-range header and Neil El Aynaoui’s powerful shot. Achraf Hakimi also hit the crossbar and forced another save from Verbruggen, showcasing his deep runs from the back. On the other end, Yassine Bounou was called into action to parry Micky van de Ven’s long-range strike.

The momentum shifted throughout the match. After Gakpo’s opener, the Netherlands seemed increasingly comfortable, with captain Virgil van Dijk making a key intervention to stop Saibari. However, Diop’s late equalizer dramatically changed the game’s trajectory, forcing extra time where neither team could find a decisive goal.

Penalty Shootout Drama

The penalty shootout began with early misses from both sides. Morocco’s Neil El Aynaoui and Dutch substitute Justin Kluivert both failed to convert their attempts. There was a moment of suspense when Verbruggen appeared to save Soufiane Rahimi’s shot, but the ball trickled under him and crossed the line. Quinten Timber then sent the Netherlands’ fourth kick wide.

Achraf Hakimi had a chance to seal the victory for Morocco but struck the post. However, Ismael Saibari kept his composure to convert the final spot kick, securing the 3-2 shootout win for Morocco. This sent the team into the round of 16 and eliminated the Netherlands from the tournament.

The victory sparked significant celebrations among the Moroccan community. In The Hague, Netherlands, some fans clashed with police. Authorities reported that “heavy fireworks were set off” in the Schilderswijk district, and officers were pelted with fireworks and stones. Riot squads used a water cannon to disperse the crowd, and “a few individuals have been arrested for committing open violence.”

Looking Ahead to Canada Match

Morocco will now face co-host Canada in the next round on Saturday in Houston. This will be the second consecutive World Cup featuring a Canada-Morocco showdown. The Atlas Lions previously defeated Canada 2-1 in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, a tournament where Morocco made a historic run to the semifinals, becoming the first African team to reach that stage.

Expectations are high in Morocco, with supporters hoping for another deep run in the tournament. Canada also secured a significant victory, with Stephen Eustáquio’s 92nd-minute winner giving them a 1-0 win over South Africa in Inglewood, Calif., on Sunday, marking their first knockout stage victory in the tournament’s history. The winner of the Morocco-Canada match could potentially face France in the quarter-finals.

Morocco’s triumph over the Netherlands on penalties on Monday night ensures their progression in the World Cup.

Source: thestar.com

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The World Cup 2026 is seen as a significant opportunity for Canadian soccer, with the country hosting the tournament for the first time. The event is anticipated to provide a boost to the sport, similar to the impact the 1994 World Cup had on soccer in the United States. While the United States and Mexico have hosted before, Canada‘s status as a first-time host presents a unique chance for growth.

Tosaint Ricketts, a former Canada forward now with the Vancouver Whitecaps, described the World Cup as Canada‘s “coming out party,” emphasizing the substantial stakes involved. The Canadian Soccer Association aims to build on momentum after the men’s team qualified for the World Cup in 2022, marking their first appearance since 1986. The women’s team has also achieved success, securing three consecutive Olympic medals from 2012 to 2020, including a gold medal in the most recent of those.

James Johnson, commissioner of the Canadian Premier League, highlighted that the biggest opportunity extends beyond the five weeks of hosting and participating in the tournament. He stressed the importance of the legacy the tournament can leave, which has the potential to transform soccer in Canada. The goal is to leverage the World Cup to attract investment, scale operations, and enhance the sport’s infrastructure.

Impact on domestic soccer and investment

Despite soccer being the most participated-in sport in Canada, with over a million participants, there is a recognized gap between this widespread participation and the elite level of the domestic game. Ricketts noted the need for corporations to invest in the sport and improve infrastructure to support the growth of these participants. The World Cup is expected to help make this progress sustainable by attracting sponsors who will continue their involvement after the tournament concludes.

The aim is to increase marketing for the Canadian Premier League, enhance playing time, and develop club infrastructures to foster better players. This requires significant investment to commercialize the sport and integrate it into the mainstream. The hope is that soccer will remain visible in Canada through various media even after the World Cup has passed.

The performance of the national team is considered a significant factor in shaping the sport’s legacy. The longer a host nation remains in the tournament, the deeper the connection new fans may develop with the sport. Ricketts believes that the historical moments created during this World Cup will inspire future generations, with children discussing the event for years to come.

Ticket price fluctuations for knockout stage

Ticket prices for the Round of 32 match at BC Place have seen fluctuations. After Canada‘s match against Qatar, ticket prices for a potential Round of 32 game at BC Place increased. The get-in price for the BC Place Round of 32 match was C$1,334 the morning before Canada played Qatar. The following morning, the average get-in price rose to C$1,709. Prices for the match reportedly climbed to C$2,352 for the get-in price before Canada faced Switzerland.

Following a match, ticket prices for Switzerland‘s knockout game at BC Place decreased. The get-in price for Switzerland‘s game at BC Place is now C$840, according to TicketData. This represents a decrease from the peak of get-in prices. On FIFA‘s ticket portal, the cheapest ticket was available for C$799 as of Saturday morning.

Canada‘s knockout game in Los Angeles and Switzerland‘s match on July 2 are among the Round of 32 games where tickets can be obtained for under C$1,000. The most expensive Round of 32 match is Mexico‘s contest in Mexico City, with a get-in price exceeding C$4,000. While Switzerland‘s opponent for the July 2 match at BC Place is not yet confirmed, it is expected to be Iran.

Source: theguardian.com

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British Columbia Investigates Ticket Complaints

Consumer Protection BC is investigating complaints regarding World Cup tickets purchased through the reseller StubHub. This action follows reports from individuals in British Columbia who state they did not receive their tickets. Niki Sharma, British Columbia’s Attorney General, expressed concern over the situation, noting that major events like the World Cup should be exciting experiences free from ticket worries.

The investigation aims to determine if any laws have been violated, particularly concerning the province’s Ticket Sales Act. This act promotes transparency and accountability in ticket sales and outlines conditions for refunds. It also prohibits the sale of tickets that a business does not own or control.

Global Concerns and Consumer Advice

Globally, a growing number of World Cup fans who bought tickets on StubHub have reported being notified shortly before matches that their tickets were nonexistent. These issues have led to significant frustration, with reports of ruined trips and financial losses. Advocates suggest that thousands of fans may have been affected by these problems.

A spokesperson for StubHub attributed many of the World Cup issues to a new ticketing app introduced by Fifa just before the tournament. They stated that the problems are primarily “transfer problems, not ticket problems,” citing “significant performance issues” with Fifa’s app that have impacted ticket transfers across various resale platforms. StubHub emphasized that their priority is to ensure fans reach their matches and that they have established a dedicated World Cup support team to source replacement tickets.

Fifa, on the other hand, maintains that Fifa.com/tickets is the official sales channel for the World Cup 2026 and guarantees the validity and delivery of tickets purchased through its official platforms.

For fans who did not receive their purchased tickets, consumer advocates and legal experts offer several recommendations. One key piece of advice is to be persistent with StubHub’s customer service and demand replacement tickets rather than simply accepting a refund. If standard customer service is unhelpful, consumers are encouraged to escalate their concerns in writing to a manager.

It is important for buyers to understand that StubHub’s FanProtect guarantee bases “comparable” tickets on price, not seating location. This means replacement tickets might be in a different, potentially less desirable, area of the stadium if the original purchase was made weeks in advance.

Consumers who do not wish to attend a match after a cancellation may dispute the charges with their credit card company. Additionally, filing formal complaints with regulatory bodies, such as the Federal Trade Commission in the US or local consumer regulators outside the US, can be an option. Social media and local media pressure are also seen as ways to influence how StubHub and Fifa address the situation.

Some consumers may face arbitration clauses that prevent direct lawsuits against companies like StubHub. In such cases, the process involves sending a “notice of dispute” via certified mail, followed by a review by the American Arbitration Association, which appoints an expert to decide the claim for a fee.

Looking ahead, consumer advocates advise caution when using resellers. They suggest buying only “downloadable” tickets that are immediately available or, ideally, purchasing tickets directly from official sources like Fifa for the World Cup or directly from venues for other events. Consumer Protection BC has confirmed it is monitoring the situation to support consumers and understand the issues being raised.

Source: theguardian.com

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Match Highlights and Fan Reactions

The FIFA World Cup match in Seattle between Egypt and Iran concluded with a 1-1 draw, a result that brought both joy and disappointment to fans. For Egypt, the draw was significant as the country advanced past the group stages of the World Cup for the first time. Supporters celebrated outside the stadium, with one fan, Daniel Salib, expressing immense pride in his country and team, citing their performances against New Zealand and Belgium.

Iran, known as Team Melli, had a late goal disallowed by VAR for offside and missed a penalty in the first half. Despite the draw, Iran remains in contention to qualify as one of the best third-place finishers, pending other match results. Iranian fan Saeed Nassef shared his disappointment with the outcome but held onto hope for Iran‘s progression to the round of 32.

Inside the stadium, the atmosphere was described as electric, with no empty seats and constant engagement from the crowd. Fans from both nations were observed taking pictures together at halftime, and after the final whistle, Egyptian players offered consolation to their visibly upset Iranian counterparts. Chants of “Iran, Iran” and “Misr, Misr” (Arabic for Egypt) alternated throughout the 90 minutes, rather than competing.

Protests and Inclusivity Discussions

Outside the stadium, the match was accompanied by protests against the Iranian government. Demonstrators waved US and Israeli flags and displayed images of Iranian opposition figure Reza Pahlavi. Some Iranian fans, including Saeed Nassef, reported experiencing harassment from these opposition activists. A confrontation was witnessed between anti-government activists and a supporter carrying an official Iranian flag, with police intervening to separate them. The fan, identified as Milad, emphasized his focus on supporting the players and the country, separate from political issues.

The game was also designated as the World Cup‘s “Pride Match,” leading to discussions and some controversy. The Iran Football Federation had requested FIFA to prevent any activities or symbols supporting the LGBTQ+ community within the stadium. Similarly, the Egyptian Football Association stated its refusal of any activities related to supporting homosexuality, citing cultural, religious, and social values. FIFA, however, confirmed that rainbow flags and other symbols representing sexual orientation and gender identity are permitted under the FIFA World Cup 2026 Stadium Code of Conduct, considering the event an inclusive one.

The Seattle host committee had planned activations for the “Pride Matchday” in advance of the draw. FIFA President Gianni Infantino had previously clarified that while events organized by external organizations would occur in the city, there would be no official “Pride Match” at the World Cup itself. Local organizers in Seattle had maintained their stance on the branding, with a representative from Seattle’s World Cup organizing committee, Hedda McLendon, highlighting the city’s culture of inclusion.

Broader Messages and Historic Moments

Beyond the match and protests, some fans used the event to convey broader messages. An Iranian fan named Hameed wore a shirt displaying “Minab 168,” a message intended to honour victims of a school bombing in southern Iran. He expressed a desire for a credible investigation into the incident and emphasized the importance of humanity and protecting children globally. Many Palestinian flags were also visible at the match, with some Egyptian and Iranian fans shouting “Free Palestine.” Bilal Ali, an Egyptian fan with a Palestinian flag, stated his desire to keep politics out of football but felt compelled to speak out given ongoing events.

Despite the various discussions and demonstrations, the final whistle marked a historic sporting achievement for Egypt. Fans like Rafael Youssef, with the Egyptian flag colours painted on his cheek, described the feeling of seeing his country achieve this milestone after years of support as surreal. The match ultimately offered a blend of sporting excitement, political expression, and cultural celebration in Seattle.

The Iran Football Federation had communicated its position to FIFA, emphasizing that Iran and Egypt, as Muslim countries, share deep cultural and religious commonalities, and that their views reflect the values and beliefs of their people.

Source: aljazeera.com

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Iran faces an uncertain path to the World Cup knockout stage following a 1-1 draw against Egypt, a match that concluded with a disallowed late goal for Iran. The game, held in Seattle, was designated a “Pride Match” by local organizers, a decision that sparked discussion and differing opinions among fans and officials from both nations.

Egypt, having already secured its qualification for the round of 32, took an early lead within five minutes through Mahmoud Saber. Iran responded swiftly, with Ramin Rezaeian scoring an equalizer in the 14th minute after a rebound, following a saved penalty by Mehdi Taremi.

Late Drama and VAR Intervention

The initial high-tempo play gradually subsided, leading to a more disjointed game until a dramatic conclusion. In the 93rd minute, Shoja Khalilzadeh appeared to score a winning goal for Iran, prompting celebrations from the team bench. However, the goal was subsequently ruled out for offside after a VAR review, denying Iran what seemed to be a decisive victory.

This outcome means Egypt finished second in their group with five points, trailing Belgium on goal difference. Egypt will play Australia in the knockout phase. Iran, currently in third place with three points, must now await confirmation to see if they will advance as one of the eight best third-placed teams.

The match saw significant support from both Egyptian and Iranian fans. Some Iranian spectators displayed pre-revolutionary flags and booed their national anthem, reflecting broader political sentiments.

The “Pride Match” Context

The designation of the game as a “Pride Match” by Seattle organizers, allowing rainbow flags in the stands, generated controversy. Officials in both Iran and Egypt had expressed disapproval, with some calling for the cancellation of the match due to its association with gay rights. Iran’s head coach, Amir Ghalenoei, stated the team was there “to play football. For nothing else,” a sentiment echoed by Egypt’s coach, Hossam Hassan.

Despite official objections, the game proceeded, creating a platform for discussion. For some Iranian-born individuals living in the U.S., the visibility offered by the Pride Match was seen as a valuable opportunity to raise awareness about gay rights in Iran. One chemical engineer, identified as Sam, expressed that the event had already achieved something notable by provoking discussion on the topic.

Conversely, some fans, like Cairo banker Moustafa Wahba, conveyed disinterest in the political aspects, stating, “We don’t care about what’s happening here in Seattle. We don’t care about what’s happening in the world. We need to win.” Another Egyptian student, David Mikhael, lamented the focus on divisive issues when the primary purpose was to enjoy the soccer game.

The staging of the Pride Match in Seattle was the result of years of effort by the city to promote its inclusive culture as a host city. The local organizing committee, through senior vice-president Hedda McLendon, expressed satisfaction that their efforts to celebrate inclusivity were recognized. The city also developed an app to help visitors identify LGBTQ businesses, aiming to leverage the event for economic benefit and to elevate the LGBT community in Washington.

The match highlighted the complexities of blending sports with social and political issues. Outside the stadium, a mobile billboard urged to “Kick LGBT Ideology Out of the FIFA World Cup,” while demonstrators chanted against the Iranian government. Inside, some fans were prevented from bringing pre-revolution Iranian flags, with only the official flag of the Islamic Republic of Iran being permitted, contrasting with the allowance of Pride flags due to Seattle city law.

This situation placed Iranian soccer and its diaspora in a challenging position, as noted by Iranian-American Bookda Gheisar. She expressed concern for Iran’s players, who, despite their hard work, found themselves amidst various controversies. The game concluded with Iran’s fate in the tournament now dependent on other results.

Source: aljazeera.com

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