The countdown to tonight’s Fifa World Cup final has sparked a wave of excitement in Bahrain, with Argentine and Spanish supporters confidently backing their teams to lift football’s biggest prize.
For some, it is all about tactics and talent. For others, it is about superstition.
Brasero Atlántico Bahrain co-founder and Hierophant Group co-partner Alex Resnik believes one particular shirt has played a part in Argentina’s remarkable run.
The Argentine businessman, who watched the semi-final in person alongside his son Dylan and business partner Tato Giovannoni, will host around 20 fellow Argentinians at his home in San Francisco, California, to watch tonight’s final.
“I haven’t washed my Argentina jersey since we won the World Cup in Qatar in 2022,” Mr Resnik laughed.
“The same jersey has brought us win after win ever since, so it has become my lucky charm. I will keep wearing it.”
He is predicting a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory. “The fourth star is coming,” he declared.
Mr Resnik also praised the Bahraini family in Sitra whose home has gone viral after being painted in the colours of the Argentine flag and decorated with giant images of Lionel Messi.
“When I arrive in Bahrain next month, I want to meet and treat the family,” he said. “Bahrain loves Messi and someone going the extra mile to paint their entire home shows incredible affection. It deserves appreciation.”
Another Argentine in Bahrain, veterinarian Celeste Rivera, is equally optimistic.
“This has been an amazing World Cup,” she said. “We haven’t lost a match and I believe we will finish it with a flawless campaign.”
She predicts an entertaining 3-2 victory for Argentina and hopes captain Lionel Messi can create another unforgettable chapter in his playing career.
“This could be Messi’s last World Cup. I hope it isn’t, but if it is, I want to see him lift the trophy for a second time.”
However, not everyone is expecting another Argentine celebration.
American University of Bahrain professor Maria del Mar de Fez Laso believes Spain’s youthful squad has what it takes to upset the favourites.
“My national team is strong, fearless and full of young talent,” she said. “We’ve already shown we can beat teams that many considered favourites, including France.
“I believe Spain will win 1-0.”
With kick-off just hours away, football fever is reaching its peak as supporters across Bahrain prepare watch parties, family gatherings and celebrations, each hoping their prediction will become reality.
Whether it is a lucky jersey that has never seen a washing machine, a house transformed into an Argentine shrine, or unwavering faith in Spain’s rising stars, one thing is certain – today promises to deliver another unforgettable chapter in World Cup history.
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