By Belize Live News Staff: Football fever is building across Belize, and it is set to reach its peak on July 19 when the World Cup final is played just up the road in New Jersey.
The tournament, hosted across North America this year, has brought the world’s biggest sporting event closer to Belize than ever before. Now FIFA has confirmed how the showpiece will end. United States President Donald Trump is to take part in presenting the trophy to the champions, alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino. It is a departure from the way recent finals have been handled, with the two set to hand the trophy to the winning captain together, rather than Infantino doing so alone as he did in Qatar and Russia.
For Belizean fans, the location of this World Cup has made it especially easy to follow. Matches have played out in familiar time zones, and some supporters have travelled to see the games up close, carrying the Belize flag with pride. Back home, living rooms, bars and phones have been tuned in throughout the tournament.
The excitement also feeds a familiar dream. As Belizeans cheer on the world’s best, many continue to hope that one day it will be their own national team walking out on that stage. For now, though, all attention turns to the final.
When the whistle blows in New Jersey on July 19, Belize will be watching along with the rest of the planet, ready to see which nation is crowned world champion.
