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World Cup fever’s taken over London, but it’s not all about England. Grace Goslin finds out how fans from across the globe have been celebrating in the city
Portugal
Madeira Só Peixe, Stockwell (pictured above)
‘I’m with a big group of friends; we decided that this year we would watch all the games together. When Ronaldo scored a hat-trick against Spain [in a 3-3 draw], that meant a lot to us. He brought the whole country along with him to celebrate the result.’ Joshua, 28
Sweden
The Swedish Church, Marylebone
‘I’m a big football fan in Sweden so the World Cup means a lot to me. We’re just in London for a holiday, so me and my family are having a good laugh. Our 3-0 win over Mexico was amazing.’ Jonas, 38
Argentina
Bife Bar & Restaurant, Aldgate
‘I live for football! I’ve been playing ever since I was little in Argentina. We also ran an Argentinian team in London for three years and we all played in Argentinian shirts. My best memory was the last World Cup when we made it all the way to the final.’ Christian, 34
‘My highlight has been watching Argentina try harder than before. It’s not about whether we win or lose, it’s about seeing them try until the last minute – that makes me really happy.’ Anna, 33
Colombia
Colombian Market, Seven Sisters
‘I’m here watching with my friends – it’s the closest thing to being at home. When we beat Poland 3-0 that was an amazing moment!’ Alisson, 24
France
The French Institute, Kensington
‘It’s a good occasion to share a worldwide passion for football and interact with people from different countries. It’s the most global culture – something you can share with everybody.’ Vincent, 34
‘The excitement is a total escape from normal life. It’s a way of bringing people together, it’s a universal thing – from Blackburn Rovers to Marseille, from England to France, football really connects people.’ Stephanie, 30
Brazil
Made in Brasil, Camden
‘I don’t usually like football, but I love the World Cup! Everyone gets in the spirit of their own country and there’s all the goosebumps and excitement. It’s always good fun.’ Barbara, 34
Uruguay
Flat Iron Square, Southwark
‘The atmosphere is amazing! We can scream and yell and it’s just how we would do it in Uruguay. It feels like home. Home is so far away, so it’s great. We have a group called “Uruguayans in London” and we’ve come here to celebrate together. My boyfriend and I made a promise that if Uruguay go to the final, we are going to buy tickets and go to Russia! Even if it’s £1,000, we are going!’ Veronica, 29
Photos: Andy Parson and Rob Greig