After all the off-field controversies, player injuries and questionable squad selections, FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar kicks-off on Sunday 20 November. Whatever your thoughts on the tournament, what's clear is that it will be unlike any World Cup to have come before it.
Whilst some will bemoan the scheduling, we're actually pretty psyched for it (usually there's just too many other distractions here when it's held in summer!) With usual haunts such as Linekers and Kilties off the menu, that does make choosing where to watch the games a bit more of a challenge at this time of year.
Fear not, we're here to round-up the options on the table.
San Antonio & San Antonio Bay
Pub Neptunos
At the Calo des Moro end of town, committed football fans should gravitate towards Pub Neptuno for cheap drinks and the owner's witty repartee. You can even shoot some pool at half-time.
While food isn't served on the premises, there's enough shops and take-outs nearby to keep you well-fed. Just remember to tidy-up your debris and keep you glass topped up as courtesy. Bring cash, as cards are not accepted.
The Ship Inn
Workers' favourite hangout The Ship Inn has long been a watering hole to catch televised matches - and nothing changes for the World Cup. The tight-knit community of familiar faces welcome all to pull up a pew, order a cold one and shout at overpaid athletes kicking a ball around a field.
Taberna Cebo
One place sure to be full of armchair pundits is Taberna Cebo, found opposite O Beach.
A hotspot amongst locals and expats alike, opt for Cebo if you're after in-game insights, post-match analysis and VAR scrutiny, plus banter and revelry amongst a crowd old enough to know better, but young enough not to care.
Plastik Bar
Further around the Bay, Plastik will be rounding up the English, Scottish and Welsh community on its Cala de Bou doorstep. No matter your allegiance, it's sure to be good-natured albeit with a sobering dose of reality if your team fails to reach the knock-out stage.
Let's hope Bale really is 100 per cent fit, eh lads! Though we're sure the Qatari golf courses are worth checking-out should he find he's got a bit more time on his hands.
Parco Ibiza
One destination showing all matches on its big screens is revamped upmarket campsite Parco Ibiza, on the outskirts of San Antonio. For those not in the know, it’s tucked away off the roundabout, opposite LIDL.
Aside from the footy, the venue is laying on burgers and tapas during games, so consider us interested. Capacity is limited to only 60 people, which will make for an intimate and potentially fervent atmosphere.
Ibiza Town & Playa d'en Bossa
NUI Ibiza
While details are thin on the ground at point of going to press, we're hearing credible whisperings that the fanzone at NUI Ibiza will return for the World Cup. It's unlikely to be the same scale as during last year's delayed EURO championships, but attendees will still find they are swept up in football fever. More details as we know them.
La Ponderosa
Perhaps the ideal option for anybody landing or needing to check-in either side of games is La Ponderosa. Due to its location in the vicinity of the airport, this most Ibizan of cafeterias always pulls out the big screens for big matches.
If you're eager to watch every last second of action (including the potential drama of extra time and penalties) but wary of missing your flight, then look no further. Cañas, Hierbas and traditional snacks in plentiful supply.
Father Jack's
For the third major international tournament in a row, the Republic Of Ireland are conspicuous by their absence. If you still seek merriment and passion as only the Irish know how, then head to Father Jack's in Figueretas, where you'll find Guinness and craic in full flow.
Though it might feel like the loneliest place in the world for an England fan after suffering a loss.
Santa Eulalia
WOM Radio Café
Word of Mouth Community Radio Café promises to show "all the big games", which means great news for fans of the Home Nations and Spain, but less positive for the Japan versus Costa Rica fixture at 11:00 CET on 27 November. Big screens, food specials and a roof - just in case.
Word on the street is this is a great shout for watching the World Cup in a vibrant setting.
Queen Victoria
If you seek some friendly faces and good conversation as well as the football, then head to the Queen Vic in Santa Eulalia. Inside you'll find a warming, homely vibe from landlords Stu and Nat. Considered a home-away-from-home by many adopted islanders, it almost feels like you're on British soil. If you're flying the flag for England, look no further.
Santa Gertrudis
La Chickeria
There are few finer things in life than good chicken and good football, so why not combine the two? La Chickeria in Santa Gertrudis is run by fanatics of both, meaning you can grab some tasty grub while you cheer on your team. It's beer isn't bad either!
Expect a rampant atmosphere every time The Netherlands play in this Dutch-owned eaterie. Oranje open their campaign against Senegal on Monday 21 November, in the same group as hosts Qatar.
Many regular bars will show the odd game, especially for their national affiliation, but might not necessarily be screening every one. Taking into account the early kick-off times, it's always best to call ahead to check they are definitely open.
All the best to all nations involved, but especially the Home Nations and Spain too! Above all else, let's hope for some entertaining football.
