All set: A restaurant employee wiping the big screen ahead of the Euro 2024 final at an outlet in Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur. — MUHAMAD SHAHRIL ROSLI/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Football fever is at its peak here as it is in Berlin, where the Euro 2024 final will be staged.
The countdown to the exciting final pitting England against Spain has begun, with fans looking for spots to catch the live broadcast of the match which will be played at the Olympiastadion in the German capital at 3am on Monday (Malaysian time).
As of now, no major public screenings have been planned this time around in venues such as Dataran Merdeka here.
To make up for that, plenty of F&B outlets and mamak restaurants will stay open to cater to football die-hards.
ALSO READ: Embassies gear up for the final
Some have pulled out the stops to create a carnival atmosphere to liven things up and make it a much more memorable experience.
Souled Out restaurant and bar co-founder Michele Kwok said football fans are all amped up for the Euro 2024 final.
“We have had very good response from football fans over the last few weeks, and we are already booked out for the final at Sri Hartamas even though the match is played at that hour here.
“The camaraderie and atmosphere is really special with flags hoisted on our entrance and fans coming in to cheer for the teams in the respective national jerseys and with painted faces,” she said, adding that she expected their other restaurants to be packed for the final too.
“We will add to the revelry of the final match with entertainment by our service crew and come up with special supper menus and drink promotions,” she added.
ALSO READ: English pubs and shops gear up for Euro 2024 final bonanza
Football coach B. Rajan said he would be in the city centre to watch the final with his friends.
The lifelong supporter of England said he would not miss the opportunity to watch The Three Lions win their first European championship.
“It will be a dream come true if England manage to beat Spain, especially after losing to Italy in the Euro 2020 final.
“I will be rooting for them with my usual group of football crazy friends whom I’ve known since secondary school,” he said.
Rajan, who lives in Rawang, said the final match was so important to him that he even booked a hotel.
“Win or lose, it will be an exhausting night for sure with all the emotions and drinking at the bar.
“So it will be safer to get some rest before driving home,” he said.
Jones Ng, from Ampang made sure to take leave from work.
The IT project manager said he learnt his lesson during the group stage matches.
“It’s common practice now to take the day off during big matches like this, which I think is beneficial for employees and employers, otherwise it will be a very unproductive workday.
“Even though I’m not a supporter of either side, I am looking forward to the clash.
“Just getting a feel of the final will be a great experience,” he added.
