(Courtesy: Canva)
The FIFA World Cup kicks off next Thursday, and Toronto is preparing for Canada’s men’s national soccer team to play their first game against Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 12 in the city.
This year is the first time the World Cup will be held in Canada, making residents both excited in anticipation for the joy it’ll bring to the city, but also scared of the chaos that’ll be coming with it.
BMO Field in Toronto and BC Place in Vancouver will be the hosting venues in the country.
“My parents are in town, and we’re going to see Ghana versus Panama, and then we’re going to the FIFA Fan Fest as well,” Toronto resident Alberto S. told The Brandon Gonez Show.
FIFA Fan Festival is the official public screening of the live soccer matches, but also has live performances, art installations and food vendors.
It’s a great way for fans to cheer on their favourite teams, bringing the energy and excitement to the city.
Even though the hype around the World Cup is exciting, many Torontonians are worried about the traffic when games are being held at BMO Field.
“I live here, just like a couple of blocks from this area where the stadium is, and I think it’s going to be packed. It’s going to be impossible to drive, so we are accounting for that. We’re not going to do anything other than like be around the stadium on Thursday and Friday,” Alberto S. adds.
Anticipating significant congestion, many drivers are apprehensive about traveling through the city and are actively seeking ways to avoid the area ahead of the tournament.
“I’m already planning my out-of-office and kind of like banking in office days right now, so that I can avoid going in office,” shared Torontonian Sam H.
“I’m anticipating a lot of buzz, which is why I’m actually away that weekend [June 12],” said Jackie T.
Canadians did share with The Brandon Gonez Show who they are thinking will be taking home the trophy.
“Oh, Canada, duh,” Jackie T. said.
“I really hope they [Canada] make it far, but I don’t see them winning, though,” shared Toronto resident Dylan H. He did say who he does believe will win, “Probably Spain. They have a good team, really promising squad, but at the same time I really don’t know. Like, I’m just putting my bets on them.”
