From the way Mr Lai Sze Hai cheered and moved closer to the screen at Wildseed Cafe and Bar yesterday as he watched the France-Australia Group C opener, one could be forgiven for thinking he was a passionate football fan.
Instead, the 42-year-old civil servant was simply there to soak in the World Cup atmosphere with two of his friends and their families, courtesy of The Straits Times.
Mr Lai said: "The experience was good. I enjoyed the camaraderie with my friends and all the football fans.
"I'm appreciative of what The Straits Times has done for us, as this allowed us to gather and watch this together."
The month-long tournament in Russia began on Thursday, with the final to be held in Moscow on July 15. Wildseed is screening all 64 games.
Despite not following football, Mr Lai was pleased with the result - France won 2-1 - and noted: "It was quite interesting because there was nothing much in the first half and the second half was when the energy levels went up."
He said the company made all the difference, adding that "it's different when you watch it alone".
He was one of almost 40 people who attended ST's inaugural World Cup viewing party at Seletar Aerospace Park.
The event was limited to ST subscribers, who could bring one other person. Each received two complimentary beers or soft drinks and a bar snack.
Ms Vickie Yeo sat with her friend Alyssa Tan. Although she was rooting for Australia while the latter supported France yesterday, there was no tension between the two public service managers.
Ms Yeo, 35, was heartened by the fight that Australia put up, saying: "At least they scored a goal.
"We enjoyed the atmosphere where people cheer together or oppose together... The crowd plays a part when it comes to watching games like these."
Ms Tan, 43, who is betting on defending champions Germany to claim back-to-back titles, added: "It was fun, we just cheered for each other's teams. Even though (we may not all) know each other, we have a common interest and there are no boundaries."
Both stayed on for the Argentina-Iceland game at 9pm.
ST sports editor Lee Yulin said: "A bar, beer, weather that went from balmy to breezy, plus football. What's not to like?
"Wildseed's unique rustic setting made this an occasion to remember, and we are glad that our subscribers enjoyed themselves.
"ST will stage another screening for the final on July 15. Watch this space for details."
