As Summer heats up, we take a look at all things soccer- from local teams, to punter’s predictions and the best bars to watch the game in Fukuoka.
Fukuoka Gaikokujin United
Since 2000, Fukuoka Gaikokujin United (F.G.U.) has been helping foreigners combat their soccer withdrawal symptoms. They also happen to be a bloody good team, amassing back-to-back wins of the Western Japan tournament and becoming 5-time winners of the Kyushu Cup. F.G.U. is mostly made up of JETs and eikawa teachers from all over the world, but they boast the odd computer programmer, scientist and translator, too. What they all have in common is an infectious love for the game, so get out there and support them!
Want to join? Watch a game? Cheer them on? Check out their website at www.eteamz.active.com/fgu or contact Nick Canning at nacanning@hotmail.com.
F.G.U. wants to play more games and have more practices in the city! Please get in touch with them at the address above to recommend possible training or playing areas.
PUNTER’S PREDICTIONS!
Nick Canning (England)
“I thought last time, it was between England and Brazil. I think this time, it’ll be the same, only we will win! We have a better side now, although there are no easy games at this level. I do think England has one of the best midfields in the world, and with Owen and Rooney fit, we always carry a goal threat.”
Kalla Stark (Germany)
“Who else but Germany? Supported by the home crowds, underestimated by everyone… The tournament is what counts, and I believe Germany can come through when it really matters. The English will be distracted by the beer gardens, the Brazilians by the nightlife, and the Italians by the German girls. There can be only one champion, and it’s Deutschland!”
Matthew Ho (U.S.A.)
“The U.S.A.’s strong teamwork and mix of up-and-coming players like Brian Ching (Hawaiian, leading the MLS in goals scored), DaMarcus Beasley and Oguchi Onyewu makes them a serious contender to win the World Cup. They are ranked 4th in the world at the moment, and they will need to put in an exceptional performance on the international stage in Germany this summer.”
BARS WITH BIG SCREENS!
You love sports – and you know you should be out there on the field with your team, but it’s just too stinking hot out there! Daijobu! Fukuoka has plenty of bars with big screens so you can enjoy sports without sweating!
Fubar
The recently renovated Fubar is the perfect place to head out for a fun-packed night of partying, and they often play big sporting events on their giant projector. Combine the international crowd with the new look and it’s a winner! For all this summer’s big soccer matches, predict the final score correctly and win a 5,000 yen bar tab!
Tenjin Okabe II 4F, Tenjin, Chuo-ku
Open: Wed. – Thu. 21:00 – 05:00, Fri. 21:00 – 06:00, Sat. 21:00 – 08:00
Closed: Sun. – Tue.
Tel: 092-722-3006
The Underground
Sporting a new look interior, and located on Route 3 near Kashii Stn., The Underground, co-owned and operated by Makiko and London native Fabian, is the East-end’s premiere British Pub. The customers there are a friendly lot and enjoy watching sports, especially international soccer, and especially when England or Japan scores, because then it’s free shots for all!
B1F 2-15-18 Kashiieki-mae, Higashi-ku
Open: 19:00 – 04:00
Closed: Never
Tel: 092-201-9249
Happy Cock
Famous all over Kyushu, Happy Cock boasts tall ceilings, a prime location off Nishi-dori, and a mad-for-it international crowd. They’ve got a big screen for all the big events this summer, so join the rest of the punters and cheer your team on, no matter which country you’re from! Pick all 14 semi-final winners for a 10,000 yen prize!
Mountain 5 Bldg. 9F, 2-1-51 Daimyo, Chuo-ku
Open: Wed. & Sun. 19:00 – 01:00, Thu. 21:00 – 03:00, Weekend 19:00 – 05:00
Charge: Fri. & Sat. all you can drink 3,000 yen (men) / 2,000 yen (women)
Closed: Mon. & Tue.
Tel: 092-734-2686
British Pub Morris
Right in center of the action on Nishi-dori, Morris’ primary attractions are its big screen, British food menu (with low-priced, generous portions) and spacious outdoor seating area. Catch the big games on the screen inside and then go out to the patio for a breath of fresh air at half time. Wear the uniform / kit of whoever is playing for a special discount!
Stage I 7F, 2-1-4 Daimyo, Chuo-ku
Open: 17:00 – 01:00, Sun: – 0:00, before national holidays: – 02:00
Closed: Never
Tel: 092-771-4774
*Photos by James Henegan
