Al Annabi fans at Souq Waqif.
Doha, Qatar: In a testament to the unifying power of football, Souq Waqif has emerged as a bustling centre for passionate fans during the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023, particularly as the tournament advances to its knockout stage. Hundreds of enthusiasts converge on the traditional market in the afternoon and evening, transforming it into a lively spectacle of team spirit.
Over the past two weeks, Souq Waqif has become a hub for fans from both within and outside Qatar. Musical instruments, colossal flags, and complete fan attire flood the market as supporters rally behind their favourite teams. The heart of the action, including crowd cheers and displays of football skills, unfolds near the Pouce (Thumb) by César Baldaccini public artwork.
Speaking to The Peninsula, Farah from Indonesia expressed the significance of supporting Team Garuda at Souq Waqif. “It’s a special moment to be cheering for our team here. We’ve been living in this country for five years, and witnessing Garuda’s first appearance in the knockout stage is amazing. Here at Souq Waqif, we get to meet a lot of fans, talk with them, and even make friends. It’s so special what the spirit of football can bring.”
Raiza, a supporter of Japan, shared her hope for victory in the Asian Cup. “I hope Japan will win the Asian Cup. It’s an overwhelming feeling knowing they have made it to the Round of 16 clash. We sometimes go to Souq Waqif and Msheireb Downtown Doha because it’s nearby. Cheering for your team is awesome, and these two places are remarkably close.”
Abbass from Saudi Arabia highlighted Souq Waqif as a gathering place for Saudi fans. “Aside from the Falcon’s Nest in Katara, this is also where Saudi Arabia fans meet and cheer for our team.” Saudi Arabia faces South Korea today; both have won three and two Asian Cup titles respectively.
The Asian Cup spirit is also evident at the traditional market with numerous artworks, booths, and kiosks, creating a vibrant atmosphere as football fever sweeps across the nation. Enormous flags representing Asian nations participating in the tournament adorn the streets of Souq Waqif, forming a canopy of colours.
Similar to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, stores in the market capitalise on the event by offering a variety of memorabilia, including jerseys, shirts, scarves, shawls, flags, key chains, country flag sunglasses, bracelets, and caps. Hassad Omar noted an increase in sales since the tournament kick-off, with shawls and shirts being the most selling items.
Badr, who’s working at Souq Waqif for over eight years, expressed satisfaction with the liveliness the tournament has brought to the market. “It feels good that especially nowadays, the market comes alive, especially at night.
The tournament is a boost to our sales, and we hope it’s like this every day. The crowd is ecstatic, everyone’s in high spirits, and all are enjoying the football festivities.”
