2018 FIFA World Cup: Chinese fans gather in Beijing hot spots

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02:06

Although China are not involved at this year's World Cup, Beijing football fans packed bars around the capital, keeping a keen eye on events as the first match in Russia started. The tournament is catching the imagination of the Chinese who, despite not having a team to support, will still have interest in every game. Damion Jones has the story.

Midnight approaches in Beijing, and the city's watering holes are filling up as the clock ticks toward the first match of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Although host team Russia was slightly favored before kickoff, nobody seemed to expect the 5-0 drubbing they would slap on Saudi Arabia.

"Well, Russia as hosts of the World Cup had better chances of winning, because it was on their home turf. The home advantage was clear."

China's national squad has not qualified for the showpiece in 16 years, so fans in the country are used to celebrating the party football's biggest event brings, even without a home side to follow.

"The World Cup is held every four years, so when the year of the tournament comes, we need to be drinking in bars with barbecue or beers in hand. The atmosphere is always good."

At one Cantonese restaurant, supporters are discussing their picks to lift the trophy, with some familiar names being banded about.

Of course, the opening contest is just the start, and as the beautiful game's top tournament shows off glamor and grit over the next month, the biggest winners will include the spectators, both in the host country, and around the globe. DJ, CGTN.