As the winter chill descends upon Sydney, there’s no better way to keep the adrenaline pumping than by catching a live football match. Whether you’re an ardent fan of the beautiful game or a casual onlooker seeking an electric atmosphere, Sydney boasts several spots that offer an unparalleled viewing experience. This July, the city is set to become a football lover’s paradise, with action-packed matches scheduled throughout the month. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best locales in Sydney to enjoy live football, immerse yourself in the thrill of each goal, and revel in the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts.
CBD and inner-city
FIFA Fan Festival – The FIFA Fan Festival™ will bring together football fans, families and fun-seekers with a buzzing festival atmosphere where visitors can watch EVERY match of the tournament live on the big screens. With live music performances from acts like Jessica Mauboy, delicious street food feasts, a football playground and the first FIFA Museum in Australia, there is something for everyone from 20th July at Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour.
Cheers Bar – With 24-hour opening, plenty of screens, pub grub, a wide selection of drinks and a CBD location, Cheers Bar is always a popular destination for sports fans. The atmosphere will be electric during Matildas games, and fans and visitors from around the world are always welcome.
The Star Sydney 24/7 Sports Bar – The Star’s 24/7 Sports Bar is a popular location to watch live football action is likely to be no exception. There are more than 50 LCD TVs, a huge LED screen, and a menu featuring plenty of hearty American-inspired pub favourites.
York 75 – This classic sports bar is located right in the heart of the CBD on, you guessed it, York Street. With private booths, personal LED screens, drinks offers and plenty of pub grub, York 75 could be just what you’re looking for.
Barangaroo House – House Bar at Barangaroo House will have screens up and showing all the games. With the Unity Pitch nearby along the waterfront, fans can expect Barangaroo to be filled with excited supporters throughout the tournament.
Eastern suburbs
The Royal Hotel Paddington – Nestled in the heart of Paddington, The Royal Hotel is renowned for its warm hospitality. With multiple screens and a great vibe, fans can immerse themselves football action while savouring delicious pub-style food and refreshing drinks.
The Golden Sheaf – Double Bay’s The Golden Sheaf will be showing the action on its giant Sports Bar and Garden screens and offering a range of food and drink specials. Fans can book tables at this heritage-listed, Art Deco hotel for all football games by heading to the venue’s website.
Coogee Pavilion – With its stunning beachside location, the ever-popular Coogee Pavilion is a great place to catch the action live and loud. It’s showing all games in the Sports Bar and key games will be aired on its huge TV in the garden and inside Selina’s.
Woollahra Hotel – Rich in tradition since the 1930’s, The Woollahra Hotel is a local favourite in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. The big screens with be playing every match throughout the FIFA Women’s World Cup throughout the venue. Their Game Day Special during all matches is any burger (including their hugely popular Victor Churchill Beef Burger) and any beer for $30.
Clock Hotel – The Clock in Surry Hills will be screening every Matilda’s game live and loud with free margarits for the first Matilda’s goal scored across every match. To be eligible, you need to complete the form online, show your confirmation email (or a screenshot of it) to staff on arrival and collect your wristband, then when they score show your wristband.
Forrester’s – Forrester’s has been proudly serving the Surry Hills neighbourhood for over 100 years, and will be screening all the games in their Public Bar & Art Room. With multiple TV’s and big screens, a wide selection of local craft beers and Aussie wines, and a menu of pub classics, it’s the perfect place to catch all your favourite sporting fixtures.
Inner West
The Marlborough Hotel – ‘The Marly’ as it’s affectionately known by locals will be showing all Matildas games across the entire venue. You’ll find fried chicken, burgers, mains and snacks, plus plenty of plant-based options on the menu, so it’s a great spot to grab a bite to eat too.
Public House Petersham – With a large beer garden, delicious wood-fired pizzas and an extensive range of craft beers and wines, Public House Petersham is a great place to get together and watch the game. It will be playing every match upon request and fans can jump online to book a table in advance.
Outdoor screenings – Come together with other supporters to watch the Matildas games at multiple outdoor locations throughout the inner west. The opening fixture, which sees Australia take on Ireland, and the final will be shown at Camperdown Memorial Rest Park.
North Sydney and Northern Beaches
Rag & Famish – Rag & Famish Hotel is North Sydney’s oldest pub, with a courtyard, tasty pub grub and live games on its big screens. Check the pub’s schedule to see what’s on when and book a table.
The Oaks Hotel – Neutral Bay’s The Oaks Hotel is one of Sydney’s best-loved pubs and is made up of several venues in one. Taffy’s Sports Bar will be broadcasting the action and serving up a delicious winter menu, including pizzas and burgers, plus a wide selection of beers, wines and spirits, plus a tempting selection of cocktails and non-alcoholic options.
Hotel Steyne – Located right on Manly beach, Hotel Steyne has been welcoming locals and visitors since 1859. With a dedicated Sports Bar, plus a big screen in the courtyard for the big games, it’s a great spot to catch the action north of the Harbour Bridge.
4 Pines Truck Bar – Head over to this popular Northern Beaches brewery’s HQ in Brookvale for a huge selection of craft beers, brewed right next to where you’re drinking them. The Truck Bar kitchen has a range of food options, including burgers, bowls, subs and buffalo wings, plus foosball and that all-important big screen.