With no team in World Cup, China fans root for Ronaldo, Messi … and a referee

Chinese fans, unable to support their own national team in the World Cup, are finding alternative ways to engage with the tournament. In Brooklyn's Dumbo neighborhood, a 20-year-old Chinese student, Zhai Yibo, was observed at a Portugal House viewing party, a space described as a food court, bar, and World Cup celebration. He expressed a hope to one day sing the Chinese national anthem in a World Cup stadium. The article highlights that Chinese fans are rooting for prominent players like Ronaldo and Messi, and even for referees, indicating a broad interest in the global event despite their team's absence. This scene at Time Out Market illustrates a community gathering to watch matches, with attendees wearing Portuguese jerseys and singing their anthem.