With only hours left until the World Cup kicks off, the entire world is in a festive mood. Things are no different in God’s Own Country, Kerala, where World Cup fever has taken over every corner of the state. A journey from Thiruvananthapuram in the south to Kasaragod in the north offers a glimpse into the passion Malayalis have for the beautiful game. Huge cutouts, flags and banners of their favourite teams and players have sprung up across the state, transforming towns and villages into vibrant football arenas.
Houses painted in Brazil’s iconic yellow and green, murals of Lionel Messi holding the 2022 World Cup trophy, and giant cutouts of Cristiano Ronaldo accompanied by messages proclaiming that he is coming to conquer the world are among the scenes from Kerala that have captured global attention. Fan rallies organised by supporters of different nations have also taken place in several parts of the state, showcasing rivalries that, at times, seem even more intense than the recently concluded elections.
In Rajaji Nagar, also known as Chengalchoola in Thiruvananthapuram, visitors are greeted by the flags of Brazil, Argentina and Portugal. While their favourite teams battle it out on the pitch, local fans engage in a different contest through an ongoing flex-board war. Chengalchoola has also produced several talented footballers over the years, reflecting the area’s deep-rooted connection with the sport.
Not surprisingly, Brazil enjoys the largest fan base here. Vinil, one of the leading faces of the local Brazil supporters’ group, has even composed a song dedicated to his favourite team.
“Brazil has more fans here. There are Argentina, Portugal and France fans as well. Everyone understands football really well. They became fans by following the game closely, not just because of the World Cup. Everyone plays well too. We just don’t have enough facilities to encourage them,” he says.
For 17-year-old Nikhil, a devoted Cristiano Ronaldo fan, this World Cup represents hope. He dreams of seeing his idol finally achieve the ultimate prize and lift the trophy.
The Portuguese superstar has virtually taken over the hall of Nikhil’s home in Rajaji Nagar. Ronaldo’s iconic No. 7 jersey, memorabilia from the clubs he has represented, images of him with his Ballon d’Or trophies and a hand-painted portrait created by Nikhil himself make the room feel like a personal museum dedicated to the football icon.
Nikhil’s parents even bought a new large television to ensure he doesn’t miss a moment of the tournament.
“Portugal fans are fewer here compared to the others. Everyone shows their support through posters and flex boards. But we’re hopeful Cristiano will win it this time,” he says.
Nikhil recalls becoming a Ronaldo fan at a very young age after watching him play and says he continues to admire the Portuguese star’s mentality and determination.
Another resident, Sooraj, heads the local committee that organises football celebrations in the area. He takes particular pride in the young footballers emerging from the neighbourhood.
“The FIFA World Cup is like Onam for us. In fact, I feel every Malayali celebrates the World Cup even more passionately than Onam. We have many talented players here. One of them, Sreekuttan, plays for Kerala Blasters. But there aren’t enough facilities to help them reach greater heights,” he says.
Like many others, Sooraj hopes future generations will receive better infrastructure and opportunities to develop their footballing talent.
Kerala’s love affair with football has repeatedly gone viral on social media. Videos showcasing the state’s World Cup celebrations have attracted attention from around the world, with football fans from countries such as Brazil and Argentina expressing amazement at the passion displayed thousands of kilometres away from their homeland.
Yet, beyond the colours, the celebrations and the rivalries, there is a shared emotion that unites fans. This tournament could mark the final World Cup appearance for Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar — three players who have defined an era. Some are hoping one of them signs off with the trophy, while others are waiting to witness the arrival of football’s next global superstar.
Whatever unfolds over the coming weeks, one thing remains certain. In Kerala, football is far more than a sport. It is a tradition passed down through generations, a shared language that transcends age and background, and a passion that refuses to fade. Long after the final whistle is blown and the champions are crowned, the flags will come down, but the love for the game will remain as strong as ever.
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