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The World According to Fifa Part 2
Dear Hyphenly Readers,
Last week, we discussed our four favorite fan trends from the FIFA World Cup: everything from Scottish fans drinking up Boston’s beer to the friendship between Korea and Mexico. Doing research for that edition made us emotional: the radical joy of FIFA has taken over all of us at Hyphenly. So much so, that we decided to dedicate another edition to fan trends from FIFA.
How many of these trends were you aware of? And what’s your favorite fan trend to emerge from the World Cup?
ALGERIA AND KANSAS: THE UNLIKELY LOVE AFFAIR
Lawrence, Kansas, has embraced the Algerian football team in a way no one would have expected. According to the Guardian, “they’ve commissioned artwork, and signs appear on the lampposts with the phrase ‘1,2,3, Viva l’Algérie!’; Even McDonald’s drive-through windows have signs welcoming Algeria and soccer fans to Lawrence.” Sajedah, a student from the University of Kansas is behind this welcoming exchange. She partnered with local artists to create a massive earthwork installation to showcase the Algerian flag, stating she wanted the local Algerian diaspora to feel connected to their country. “There’s a lot of unnecessary anger at people who don’t look like us, and pray like us, and walk like us, and cheer like us,” said Stan Herd, a local artist. This gesture is more than welcoming the Algerian team; it’s welcoming diversity itself.
NORWAY’S VIKING ROW
Norway is playing in its first World Cup in nearly three decades. The Viking row and chant after their win over Senegal are now inescapable on the internet. Inspired by warriors heading into battle, it has become so emblematic of Norway’s success, that even the Norwegian Parliament participated in the rowing chant.
Not only that, but Manchester City's Erling Haaland has become the tournament’s breakout internet sensation. People are mesmerized by his athleticism and his playful personality. Screenshots of his meme-worthy Snapchats have become viral. Now, he’s a celebrity in China. Jingdaily explains this best:
TOURISTS FALL FOR RANCH
Visitors from all over the world are discovering food in the US. Videos of European tourists being shocked at food portions and free drink refills have been circulating on the internet. But, the most exciting discovery has been that of ranch.
@kemosabeez I feel vindicated! 😅 #ranch #ranchgirl #worldcup #worldcup2026 #travelwarning
Ranch dressing—typically a mix of buttermilk, sour cream, and mayonnaise and combined with savory herbs—has taken tourists by storm. It’s been so popular that TSA issued a statement on their social media about it: “If you’re visiting for a very large sporting event & you happen to discover RANCH while you’re here … pls pack it in your CHECKED BAG on the way home.” Kraft Heinz Company announced it will release a TSA compliant version of its dressing.
SENEGAL REPRESENTING AFRICAN PRIDE
The idea of the Seven Letters spelling SENEGAL began at the 2002 Africa Cup of Nations in Mali. “Senegal gave us security, health and education. We have to wear our national colors and represent the 17 million Senegalese people,”The team’s nickname, Les Lions de la Teranga (the Lions of Teranga), represents the football culture in the country. Senegal’s team is especially known for recruiting diaspora players. If you’re interested in knowing more about diaspora players, we recommend this Sportly episode.
Enjoying the World Cup? DM us your favorite moments from the matches on our Instagram. Check out Sportly’s Instagram for more updates on fan traditions!
Until next time,
Team Hyphenly
This newsletter was curated by Suhasini Patni.
Hyphenly curates the latest news, art, and businesses from immigrants around the world. Have a tip or story we should feature? We’d love to hear from you.
Visit us at www.immigrantlypod.com