A world cup of their own

Before the first whistle blows, a football-mad neighbourhood transforms itself into a living tribute

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is still months away,. in the city's Siddiq Goth, the countdown is already visible on the walls.

Across the neighbourhood, artists armed with paintbrushes. ladders are transforming blank surfaces into colourful tributes to football's biggest stars and nations. Volunteers work late into the night, children contribute their pocket money,. residents prepare for a celebration that has become a cherished tradition.

For nearly two decades, this football-loving community in Malir has welcomed every World Cup not merely as spectators,. as hosts of a festival built around the beautiful game.

This year, residents are preparing to welcome football's biggest event with traditional Baloch dance performances, fireworks, giant screens. streets adorned with colourful murals of international football stars and national flags.

The driving force behind these celebrations is the Gul Baloch Football Club, a community institution where football is not merely a pastime. a way of life.

"Football fans come here and appreciate our young generation," says Ghulam Mustafa, a key organiser at Gul Baloch Football Club.

According to him, preparations for the World Cup festivities began weeks ago, but the tradition itself stretches back much further.

"We have been organising these celebrations since 2006. One of our legendary artists, Attaul Imam, laid the foundation for this culture. In the Baloch community, sports are followed with great passion."

The preparations involve dozens of volunteers who divide themselves into specialised teams responsible for decorations, flags, media coverage and artwork.

"We have a media team, a flag team, a decoration team and a painting team," Mustafa explains. "Most of the work is done by volunteers, so our expenses remain low. Community members contribute donations, and even children donate their pocket money to help make the event possible."

Football's popularity in Siddiq Goth is deeply rooted in the area's sporting history.

"We have our own football ground, and football has always been part of our lives," says Muhammad Saeed.

Across the neighbourhood, artists are busy transforming ordinary walls into giant football canvases.

"We go to work in the morning and return in the evening. Then we continue painting late into the night, and sometimes until dawn," volunteer Shah Jahan said. Although Pakistan has never qualified for a FIFA World Cup. the absence of a national team has done little to diminish local enthusiasm. "Unfortunately, Pakistan is not playing in the tournament," Shah Jahan said. "But through our art and our passion, we feel connected to the World Cup. We are preparing at an international level and showing the world what Pakistani football fans can do."

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