Popcorn, sausages and soft drinks kept guests fuelled as they cheered and celebrated through the evening

Late on Monday night, Austrian Ambassador Robert Zischg’s residence turned into a screening hall for the FIFA match against Argentina, drawing a full house. With every chair occupied, fans lining the stairs, and the buttery aroma of popcorn filling the room, Austria supporters geared up to celebrate the country’s qualification after 28 years, while Argentina fans waited to watch Lionel Messi chase history. And deliver he did. With two goals, he became the top scorer in World Cup history, leading Argentina to another victory. The win comes just days after he scored a hat-trick against Algeria in their opening match.

Austrian Ambassador Robert Zischg (L) and Deputy Head of Mission, Austrian Embassy, Gisela Kristoferitsch (R )

‘The sport is bringing people together’Attendees dressed in Austrian red, Argentinian blue and white, and even the occasional yellow for Brazil came together to witness an unforgettable game. Supporters cheered every attacking move near the goal and waved their flags, while fouls from either team sparked reactions across the room. Thaisleem, an attendee, shared, “This is my first time attending a football screening in Delhi, and the energy is great. I’m from Kerala, where football screenings are very popular during the World Cup. It’s lovely to see supporters of both teams, so it’s bringing people together.”

The evening was a roller coaster of cheers, sighs and nervous glances (L), Kaspar Meyer (R ), Spokesperson, German Embassy, wore a T-shirt featuring football legend Diego Maradona

My heart beats for our team, Austria: Austrian AmbassadorSpeaking to us at half-time, Austrian Ambassador Robert Zischg said, “We really wanted to use this beautiful residence to stream the World Cup, especially since Austria has qualified after 28 years. I must admit I’m a little biased, as I have also served as ambassador to Argentina (laughs). But of course, tonight my heart beats for our team, Austria. It’s a really difficult match because Argentina, and in particular Messi, is excellent.”

(L-R) Serbian Ambassador Siniša Pavić and Paraguayan Ambassador Fleming Raul Duarte, Bosnian Ambassador Haris Hrle

A face-paint and glitter station helped supporters wear their allegiance on their sleeves – and faces

Football fans sported the colours of their favourite teams at the screening