The city of Stockholm had expected great interest. But they could never have believed that so many Swedish fans would make their way to Kungsträdgården to follow Sweden's World Cup debut against Tunisia on big screens when the match started at 4 a.m.
Ahead of the next match, against the Netherlands on Midsummer's Day, it has been decided to move the screening to Stockholm Stadium to accommodate even more supporters. Official screenings in the capital will also take place in Husby, Tensta and Bredäng.
Viewership record
"I think the World Cup is something that brings the whole country together. It's special to hear that so many people watched our match. I've seen many videos of how many people were there," says Swedish striker Anthony Elanga.
"And the fact that we won 5-1 gives them even more reason to want to push us. They will be important for us if we are going to go far in the World Cup," he says.
The turnout at the premiere has done little to dampen football fever at home. When Sweden defeated Tunisia 5–1, 1.8 million Swedes watched the match on SVT1 and SVT Play, a new viewership record for the streaming service.
It bodes well for TV4, which is broadcasting the match against the Netherlands. The match kicks off on Saturday, Midsummer's Day, with a perfect start time: 7 p.m.
“The kind that makes you happy”
Yasin Ayari, two-goal scorer against Tunisia, hopes for a Sweden that comes to a complete stop for the World Cup.
"I don't think anyone will miss that match. It will be fun," says Ayari.
For those in the World Cup bubble, it can be difficult to really get a handle on the hype at home. The Swedish squad has nevertheless seen many pictures and clips.
"It was great to see so many people out so early or so late or whatever. It was also great to be able to make them enjoy themselves and have fun. It was great to see them celebrate together. Those are the things that make you happy," says Ayari.
