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Report by POS-KUPANG.COM journalist, Kristoforus Bota

BETUN – As the 2026 FIFA World Cup draws nearer, the football atmosphere is growing increasingly lively in Malaka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The four-yearly global spectacle that always captivates fans around the world has now become the main topic of conversation across the region — from coffee stalls and canteens to youth hangouts and even among groups of mothers chatting together.

Discussions about favourite teams, star players, and championship predictions continue to dominate conversations. As the tournament approaches, excitement among the community builds even higher for what is considered the biggest football celebration in the world.

POS-KUPANG.COM’s observation at a coffee stall beside the Betun City Public Field found several young people eagerly discussing the chances of various national teams competing in this year’s World Cup.

The discussion atmosphere was warm and spirited. Each participant confidently expressed their opinions while defending their long-time favourite national team.

Among them was Josef Nahak, better known as Opa Jona. The man, who claimed to have followed football for decades, firmly declared his support for the German National Team.

According to him, Germany is one of the countries with the strongest football tradition in the world — not only because of its achievements but also its consistent ability to produce top-quality players across generations.

“Since I started watching football, Germany has always been my favourite country in the sport. That’s because Germany never runs out of new generations of players,” said Opa Jona.

He believes Germany’s main strength lies in its development system, which constantly produces new talents. For that reason, he calls Germany the king of football generation building.

“For me, Germany is truly the king of football talent production,” he emphasised.

Meanwhile, strong support for the Spanish National Team also came from Yosman Seran. Known for his keen interest in European football, Yosman is confident that Spain has a great chance to perform competitively at the 2026 World Cup.

According to Yosman, Spain’s strength lies not only in its collective team play but also in the evenly distributed quality of its players.

He specifically highlighted the emergence of young star Lamine Yamal, whom he considers one of the most valuable assets for La Roja at present.

“I like Spain because their team is complete. Individually, every player has great skill. One of the standout players is Lamine Yamal. In my opinion, he’s far more refined than most players in the world — truly world-class,” Yosman said with confidence.

Equally enthusiastic were the Portugal supporters gathered at the same spot. One of them, Eki Luan, remained loyal in backing Portugal as his pick for the title.

With full conviction, Eki said that the presence of Cristiano Ronaldo remains his primary reason for placing high hopes on the team known as Selecao das Quinas.

He believes the 2026 World Cup could be a defining moment in the legendary striker’s career. Therefore, he is certain Ronaldo will give his very best should he appear again on the world stage.

“I’ll still go with Portugal because they’ll once again field the football predator, Cristiano Ronaldo. This is the peak of his career, and I’m very optimistic about this World Cup. I believe he’ll write his name in golden letters in football history at this stage of his career,” said Eki.

The light-hearted debates at the coffee stall reflected how enthusiasm for the 2026 World Cup is growing day by day among Malaka’s residents.

Despite supporting different teams and favourite players, all the football fans present enjoyed the discussion with a shared sense of camaraderie.

Every argument sparked laughter, jokes, and sometimes heated exchanges about each nation’s chances. But ultimately, one passion united them all — their deep love for football.

The 2026 World Cup may not have kicked off yet, but its excitement is already palpable in Betun’s coffee shops. From Germany supporters who trust in tradition, Spain fans who believe in the new generation of talents, to Portugal loyalists who still have faith in Cristiano Ronaldo — all are waiting for the same moment: to see their beloved team triumph on football’s grandest stage.