Punta Ballena square in Magaluf has been painted white and red tonight to follow the France-England match, the third and fourth place game of the World Cup. Despite the disappointment of being eliminated by Argentina, English supporters have filled bars and restaurants.
The atmosphere in Magaluf was a mix of resignation and pride. At 23:00, the whistle for the France-England match in the World Cup held in the USA, Mexico, and Canada found dozens of English fans dressed in their colours, ready to bid farewell to their team with a victory. The occasion was bittersweet: no one wants to play the consolation match, but once in it, the honour of being third in the world is at stake.
Punta Ballena, World Cup Epicentre in Calvià
The streets of the tourist hub of Calvià were the main stage. From well into the afternoon, the bars and restaurants in the area occupied their terraces with supporters who, despite the intense heat of the day, did not want to miss the last challenge of Tuchel's players. The turnout was notable, especially on the central avenue of Punta Ballena, where the roar of the fans mixed with background music.
However, the passion was experienced with a certain restraint. The semi-final elimination at the hands of Argentina weighed heavily on the atmosphere. Many acknowledged that the third place match is a bitter pill, but that did not stop them from cheering. Some France shirts could even be seen among the crowd, although they were a minority. The coexistence was total, without incidents, on a night that closed the World Cup participation on the island.
A Loyal Fanbase Despite Disappointment
For British tourists who have chosen Magaluf to follow the World Cup, this match was the last opportunity to see their team live. Despite not reaching the final, the following has been massive throughout the tournament. “It hurts not to be in the final, but we have to support until the end,” commented a fan from a terrace. The English team, led by Tuchel, sought to end their participation with a victory that, although lesser, would leave a good taste in the mouth.
The result, however, seemed to matter less to many. What was important was to live the experience, share the moment, and enjoy the hospitality offerings in the area. The bars, which have seen an increase in clientele during the tournament, appreciated the buzz. “It has been a good World Cup for business, even though the English have been knocked out,” noted a waiter.
The match, held at the MetLife Stadium in New York, had no significance beyond honour. But for the fans in Calvià, it was the perfect excuse for one last night of football and camaraderie. The penultimate World Cup night in the municipality left images of flags, chants, and the occasional hug between rival fans. The World Cup may be fading, but the passion for football remains alive in Magaluf.
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