The World Cup is not just about soccer matches; it is also a huge event for funny videos and pictures online. As fans from all over the world gather, many strange and wonderful moments have gone viral on the internet.
Japanese supporters became some of the most popular fans at the tournament. They traveled in large numbers, wearing creative outfits like Mario and Pikachu. In one video, Netherlands fans playfully threw a Japanese fan holding a Pikachu into the air. In another viral video, a reporter asked two fans in Japan jerseys where they were from. The fans answered happily, "Texas is good, everything is big!"
Animals also became famous during the tournament. A dog went viral in Brazil after looking very confused by a gray card shown during a game. In Mexico, a duck named Merlín wore a tiny green national jersey and became a local hero. Merlín even met the Mexican President, Claudia Sheinbaum, before being banned from attending later matches.
Even spiritual matters became memes. A witch-doctor from Ghana named Nana Kwaku Bonsam claimed he placed a non-violent curse on England’s captain, Harry Kane, during a 0-0 draw. Although England later lost to Argentina, the internet loved the story.
From funny outfits to unexpected animal stars, these memes show that the World Cup is about sharing joy, even when teams lose.