Mizoram Celebrates Argentina's World Cup Victory with Enthusiastic Revelry

Mizoram came alive with celebrations as Argentina triumphed over England in the FIFA World Cup semifinal. The excitement resonated throughout the state, with fans cheering for Messi and engaging in revelry. Local businesses thrived as jersey sales soared, while the late-night matches impacted daily routines. The football culture in Mizoram has grown significantly since the 1990s, inspiring a new generation of players. Discover how this passion for football shapes the lives of Mizo fans and athletes alike.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 17, 2026, 09:40 IST

Aizawl's Night of Celebration

Aizawl, July 17: The capital of Mizoram, known for its peaceful atmosphere, was filled with the sounds of honking vehicles late at night as Argentina triumphed over England in a thrilling semifinal match of the FIFA World Cup, just after 2 am (IST) on Thursday. The excitement was palpable, with cheers echoing through the hills as fans celebrated Argentina's victory, showcasing their unwavering support for Lionel Messi.

Statewide Celebrations

The jubilant atmosphere extended beyond Aizawl, with similar scenes observed in various towns and villages throughout the state, where fans eagerly watched the match on their televisions and mobile devices.

Shift in Support

Mamuana, a former football writer and sports enthusiast, noted that fans in Mizoram typically support either Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. However, following Portugal's exit from the tournament, Messi's support has surged significantly.

Social Media Buzz

Throughout the tournament, social media has been abuzz with memes, banter, and passionate discussions among fans of the two football icons.

Economic Impact

The football frenzy has also led to a surge in business for local sports shops, with many running out of Argentina jerseys. Mamuana, who operates a sports goods store, reported that sales of Ronaldo and Messi jerseys have been exceptional this World Cup, with some days seeing sales exceeding Rs 1 lakh.

Additionally, online jersey retailers have experienced a boom, with many struggling to fulfill the high volume of orders, according to a local survey.

Impact on Daily Life

This year's World Cup, held in time zones less favorable for Asian viewers, has forced many football fans in Mizoram to stay awake late into the night for the knockout matches. This late-night viewing has had a noticeable impact on daily routines, with one businessman noting a decline in employee productivity due to fatigue from late-night match-watching.

Football's Growth in Mizoram

The introduction of cable television in the 1990s revolutionized football culture in Mizoram, allowing families to regularly watch major leagues and tournaments. This exposure has not only intensified football fandom but has also inspired a new generation of players.

Today, numerous Mizo footballers compete professionally in the Indian Super League, I-League, and I-League 2, with several representing India at the international level.