Argentinian and Spanish communities come together to watch the World Cup final
Watch parties were held at bars and restaurants across Long Island.
Communities across Long Island celebrated the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday.
Residents say it’s brought communities together, no matter who won in the end.
Over 200 people were at Mamma Gina’s in Mineola to watch the game.
The pizzeria has had watch parties for almost every Argentina game.
“With football, forget it. We are diehard fans,” said Paulina Maya, daughter of owner Omar Maya. “He's built this community of Argentinean people that come and we serve Argentinian pizza, empanadas, asado.”
The pizzeria opened almost 30 years ago. It’s a place where people can come and feel connected to their roots and cheer on their home team.
“This is absolutely unbelievable,” said John Galcioni, who lives in Garden City but was born in Argentina. “I've been here since I was six years old, so I grew up in the United States. But my heart is still with Argentina. This is totally amazing.”
It’s also a place where community forms over a common love of the game.
Sports bars and restaurants all across the island also brought people together in the same way. Just down the street at The St. James, Spain supporters also watched the game.
“I'm rooting for Spain. I played...when I was a young kid for the academy,” said Tristan Matthews. “So I just want to support the Barcelona players.”
