Spain win World Cup as Brooklyn and Queens wrap up a month-long party

By Noah Zimmerman

noah@queensledger.com

It feels weird to walk the streets of Queens and Brooklyn without the crowds of fans, packed sports bars, and sea of colors. New York City was truly the place to be for the 2026 World Cup, and there were endless moments to look back on after a truly exciting competition.

The streets of Astoria were set ablaze as Egypt won their first ever match at the World Cup, going on to eliminate Australia in their first ever knockout match. They were joined by Moroccan fans who celebrated another run to the Quarterfinals, filling the Queens sky with fireworks and flares.

For most Mexican fans across the city, this was the best World Cup run they’ve seen from El Tri in their lifetimes. Green jerseys filled every bar in sight, with music blasting as Mexico coasted to a Group A win.

Ecuadorian fans also took to the streets as they pulled off an improbable win against Germany to advance out of the group stage. The streets of Jackson Heights were filled with yellow shirts and Ecuadorian food as fans gathered around outdoor projectors and their favorite spots to eat.

Unfortunately Mexico and Ecuador were matched up early in the knockout stage, leading to a heartbreaking match for Queens. In the end it was the Mexican fans partying on Junction Boulevard as they marched on with a 2-0 win.

Vibes were immaculate during the Final as Spain took on Argentina, winning in extra time. Once again, fans flooded bars, crowded parks for watch parties,  and took to the streets waving their flags, beeping car horns, and celebrating with some of the most passionate crowds in the world.

The World Cup may have come and gone, but Brooklyn and Queens will never forget the month of celebrations and parties it brought. While the next competition is still years away, it’s sure to bring more of that same energy to the streets of New York City.