‘Spanish style’ wins over New York’s die-hard World Cup fans ahead of final

New York City – On the eve of the World Cup final, a wave of Spanish red has washed over pockets of Manhattan, as die-hard fans and new converts gather to support La Roja. From the historic La Nacional in Chelsea to the upscale Mercado Little Spain in Midtown, supporters are celebrating a tournament run defined by tactical discipline and youthful exuberance.

A community revitalized by football

Robert Sanfiz, director of the Spanish Benevolent Society, has been fielding a flood of late VIP requests for his organization’s watch party, already at full capacity. The 57-year-old recalls how Spain’s 2010 victory helped breathe new life into the 150-year-old institution, originally founded to aid Spanish immigrants. Though the surrounding Spanish enclave has faded, the society remains a home away from home. Sanfiz plans to stay busy during the final, joking that he’ll direct traffic to manage his own nerves. “My greater stress is the game itself,” he told Al Jazeera.

‘To be a fan of Spain is to know pain’

At Mercado Little Spain, chef José Andrés mingled with fans in a sea of red. Javier Vriz, 38, traveled from Chicago to attend the final in person. A lifelong supporter, he admits the journey has been fraught with heartbreak. “There’s always this feeling that there’s no way it’s going to happen,” he said. But this year’s squad, led by 19-year-old striker Lamine Yamal and manager Luis de la Fuente, has inspired confidence. “They never wavered from the Spanish style,” Vriz added, referring to the team’s signature possession-based approach.

Neutral fans rally behind Spain

Spain has become a natural home for World Cup “orphans” – fans whose original teams were eliminated early. Mexican supporter Rolando Sanchez, 26, switched his allegiance after Mexico’s round-of-16 exit. “A lot of Mexican fans have been hating on Argentina,” he said, but Spain’s young stars won him over. “I wouldn’t mind seeing Messi finish on top, but Spain’s players are the future.”

Community and global appeal

The team’s multicultural makeup has broadened its support. Yamal’s Moroccan heritage and the Spanish government’s recognition of Palestinian statehood have resonated in Arab enclaves like Brooklyn’s Little Palestine. Meanwhile, New York’s West African community has rallied behind the squad, reflecting the large African diaspora in Spain and the roots of some players. As the final approaches, the diverse coalition of fans underscores how Spain’s style and story have transcended borders.

Looking ahead

Whether or not Spain lifts the trophy, the tournament has cemented the team’s place in the hearts of New York’s football faithful. For Sanfiz and others, the real victory may be the revived sense of community. As the city’s Spanish red blends with the flags of other nations, one thing is clear: the Spanish style has won more than matches – it has won the city.