WESTFORD CENTER — World Cup fever has made its way across the country, as the U.S. hosts the major tournament for the second time in its history. While visitors from different countries follow their teams through the various host cities and stadiums, including Boston Stadium, locals have the opportunity to watch the games alongside fans from all corners of the world.
Although the U.S. Men’s National Team are no longer in the tournament, following a disappointing 4-1 loss to Belgium in the Round of 16 on July 6 with the sole U.S. goal coming from a Malik Tillman free kick; there are still plenty of good games left to watch, including the final this weekend.
Following a great performance by the U.S. during the group stage, which included a 4-1 win over Paraguay and 2-1 win over Australia, hopes were high for the team heading into the knockout stage. The U.S. then faced Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32 on July 1, which resulted in a 2-0 win, following a first-half goal from Folarin Balogun and a second-half free kick goal from Malik Tillman. However, the game was also riddled with controversy, as Balogun received a red card in the 64th minute for stepping on the ankle of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Tarik Muharemović. While a red card typically would mean that Balogun would be unable to play in the next match against Belgium, the ban was suspended by FIFA following a controversial appeal by the U.S. Soccer Federation.
The U.S. team and their fans were not the only ones creating a buzz in Massachusetts, especially given that the U.S. did not play a match at Boston Stadium this World Cup. Since England, France, Ghana, Haiti, Iraq, Morocco, Norway and Scotland all played group stage games at Boston Stadium, with Germany and Paraguay having played their Round of 32 game and France and Morocco set to play their quarterfinal there, Bostonians had the opportunity to experience to witness Scotland fans finishing all the beer at several Boston pubs, Norway fans doing their iconic “Viking row” outside of TD Garden and Paraguay fans partying in the streets following their historic upset win.
World Cup fever has not only been felt in Boston or in Foxborough, but even in communities like Westford, where several restaurants and bars have been showing the games and watch parties have taken place. In order to find the best spots to watch the games both in and around Westford, we asked our viewers at WestfordCAT and readers at The Westford Villager what their favorite local places are to watch the World Cup.
Here are some of the locations they recommended:
Stir Martini Bar & Kitchen – Westford
An upscale bar and restaurant, featuring colorful, creative drinks and diverse, creative dishes, Stir Martini Bar & Kitchen is a Westford favorite. Top all of that off with TVs playing the World Cup and you have yourself a perfect setting to enjoy the games.
Sear Burger & Whiskey – Westford
Another bar and restaurant known in town for its food is Sear Burger & Whiskey. Here, burgers are the star of the show. In fact they feature ten signature smash burgers. And what better to pair with a burger than a cocktail featuring a whiskey from Sear’s extensive whiskey list and of course, a World Cup game on one of their TVs.
The Sunset Tiki Bar – Westford
Located on the grounds of the Nashoba Valley Ski Area, this seasonal, outdoor summer venue is right at the base of the ski mountain, offering a unique view and summer vibe in Westford. A kid-friendly establishment with a pool that also features a bar and grill with summery drinks and a beach-themed menu is all you need to sit back, relax and enjoy a World Cup game on one of their TVs.
Pub on the Common – Littleton
Located just over the Westford border in Littleton, Pub on the Common is the ideal “Townie Bar”. Decorated in Boston sports posters and banners, this spot is a year-round favorite for locals who want to catch a Red Sox or Patriots game. But with its sports bar vibe, pub grub and good beer selection, this spot is also perfect for watching World Cup games.
The Establishment – Chelmsford
Perhaps the ideal sports bar vibe, The Establishment has TVs all across the bar and at nearly every booth. Located in North Chelmsford, just a short drive from Westford, this bar is perfect for any sports event, let alone the World Cup, where you can catch a game on one of their many screens. Combine that with their extensive menu featuring pizza, pasta, burgers, local beers and creative cocktails, and you’re in for a great time.
Where are the best spots to watch the World Cup around Westford? Answer below!
Where are the best spots to watch the World Cup around Westford?
In order to find the best spots to watch the World Cup both in and around Westford, we wanted to ask our viewers at WestfordCAT and readers at The Westford Villager what their favorite local places are to watch the games.
