A replica of the World Cup trophy is seen in downtown Houston, Texas, on June 10, 2026, ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. – AFP photo
KUCHING (June 12): As the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off today in North America, football fans across Sarawak are once again rallying behind their adopted national teams, continuing a long-standing Malaysian tradition of supporting global football powerhouses in the absence of Malaysia on the world stage.
Malaysia has never qualified for the World Cup finals, but that has done little to dampen local enthusiasm for the tournament.
This year’s edition, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, is the largest in history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches.
For many supporters, loyalty to a particular nation was formed decades ago through childhood memories, football idols and admiration for distinctive playing styles.
The Borneo Post spoke to several Sarawakians from different backgrounds on their team allegiances and predictions for the tournament.
Food vendor Desmond Mitchell Hill from Singai, Bau, said Brazil has always been his team of choice.
“Don’t know much about football or the World Cup, but the team I’ve always followed since I first knew about it is Brazil. No other team excites me more,” he said.
Desmond Mitchell Hill
Desmond said he was drawn to the flair and creativity associated with Brazilian football, growing up idolising legends such as Romario, Dunga, Cafu, Rivaldo, Ronaldo Nazario, Ronaldinho, Roberto Carlos, Pele and Zico, and more recently Neymar Jr and Roberto Firmino.
“I also like everything about Brazilian football culture, not just the national team,” he added.
For food delivery rider Khairul Azhar Sirat from Batu Kawa, Germany remains his team of choice, citing their tactical discipline and adaptability.
Khairul Azhar Sirat
“They have many strategies and playing styles that are difficult to predict. The current generation of German players also has strong ability compared to previous squads,” he said.
Medical staff member Alvin Andil Kullin from Sibu is backing England, a team he has followed through nearly 15 years of watching the English Premier League.
He believes England’s blend of established stars and emerging talent could make them genuine contenders.
Alvin Andil Kullin
“England has a long World Cup history and many young players are making their mark globally. If they stay consistent in scoring and performance, they have a chance of reaching the final,” he said.
Alvin also cited former England stars Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard as early influences on his support for the Three Lions.
Entrepreneur Jay Adam from Mukah is placing his faith in France.
“They have one of the strongest talent pools in world football, and I think there is added motivation to avenge their last World Cup final defeat. Teams with that combination of quality and determination are always dangerous,” he said.
Jay Adam
Long-time England supporter Sivanesan Sanmugalingam from Kuching traces his allegiance back to childhood days playing football in Tabuan Dayak and watching matches on one of the few colour televisions in his village.
The first World Cup he recalls following was Mexico 1986.
“Like most England fans, we are always excited every World Cup and believe this will be our year,” he said.
Sivanesan believes England’s strongest chance came in 2002, when they fielded what he considers one of their best squads, only to be eliminated by Brazil inspired by Ronaldinho.
Despite years of disappointment, he said his loyalty remains unchanged.
Sivanesan Sanmugalingam
“I shall always be an England supporter. Maybe one day they will win it. Football fans are very loyal and rarely change teams,” he said.
Secondary school teacher Juraimie Junaidi from Kuching said his World Cup journey began in 1982 when he was nine.
Although Italy won that tournament, he found himself drawn to runners-up West Germany.
“I was attracted by their system and fighting spirit. Since then, Germany has been my team in every World Cup,” he said.
Juraimie Junaidi
Juraimie believes football success depends on tactical structure and teamwork rather than individual brilliance alone.
“Besides skill, the draw and a bit of luck also matter. That is what makes football the world’s most popular sport,” he said.
Across Malaysia, following the World Cup has become something of a national ritual. With matches scheduled in the early hours due to the time difference, fans routinely sacrifice sleep to catch the action live.
Public viewing sessions at eateries and coffee shops remain a common sight, while predictions, friendly wagers and spirited debates dominate social media and workplace conversations.
For Sarawakian fans, the absence of Harimau Malaya from the tournament has not diminished the excitement. Instead, loyalties once again shift towards football’s traditional giants, ensuring that for the next five weeks, homes, eateries and workplaces across the state will be filled with hopes, heartbreaks and dreams of World Cup glory.
