Read on for our guide to how to enjoy the full World Cup 2018 experience – from the where to stream all the action to what cities are hosting your Aussie team.
MEET US IN RUSSIA
When it was announced that Russia was set to host this year’s World Cup, we knew that this would be a tournament to remember. Russia offers a vast range of cultural and entertainment value for spectators visiting the country. For those lucky fans with a hot ticket in their hands, there is a lot to get excited about – the culture, the vodka and of course, being amongst the incredible atmosphere. Our Aussies will be competing in some amazing cities in Russia, including Kazan, Samara, and Sochi.
Did you know?
- Kazan is one of the most well-equipped cities of Russia in terms of sports infrastructure, and is known as Russia’s ‘Sports Capital’.
- Samara is home to the Rossiya Chocolate Factory, which is one the most popular spots in Russia and Europe for chocoholics to visit.
- Sochi hosted the 2014 Winter Olympic games, and the construction costs reached a whopping $50 billion – the most expensive Olympic Games in history.
- Russians sure love their vodka – Researchers estimate that the average Russian drinks nearly one bottle of vodka every two days.
THE AUSSIES TAKE ON THE WORLD
The Socceroos play their first match against France at the Kazan Arena on the 16th June, followed by Denmark on the 21st June at Samara Arena, then lastly Peru at Fisht Stadium, Sochi on 26th June. From here, fingers crossed!
The Odds:
Game 1 – Australia vs France, 16 June, 8pm AEST
Win probability: Australia 5%, France 80%, Draw 15%
Game 2 – Australia vs Denmark, 21 June, 10pm AEST
Win probability: Australia 19%, Denmark 54%, Draw 27%
Game 3 – Australia vs Peru, 27 June, 12 midnight AEST
Win probability: Australia 28%, Peru 43%, Draw 29%
Chances of Australia making it to the knockout stages: 42%
HOW TO WATCH
You’ve got your match schedule ready, Socceroos green and gold jersey on – but now you’re wondering ‘how will I watch the Aussie’s win?’ Never fear because this year, soccer fans will be able to watch 25 premium games completely live, free and in HD on SBS.
Watch it via the SBS app on your ULED TV, or find out more information here: SBS Road to Russia.
VIEWING PARTY CHECKLIST
With many us not able to experience the games in Russia, the next best thing is to watch it with your mates at home. (Kind of like The Bachelor, except you don’t have to pretend “it was just on”).
To create the perfect vibe for your viewing party and to capture every nail-biting moment, you’ll need great picture quality. Our ‘Sports Mode’ feature allows for sharper horizontal motion, which means you won’t miss a single goal and you’ll feel like you’re right there in the stadium. Grab your mates and plenty of snacks to keep you going throughout the night (and to throw at the TV).
SHARE YOUR WORLD CUP 2018 EXPERIENCE
We will be watching along with you so don’t forget to join in the conversation and tag us on @HisenseAU if you’re watching the World Cup 2018 on your ULED at home!
DRINK LIKE A RUSSIAN
Aside from copious amounts of coffee to pull those ‘must-watch’ all-nighters, why not get into the spirit with a Russian cocktail?
- Squeeze lime juice into a Collins glass (or Moscow Mule mug) and drop in the spent shell.
- Add 2 or 3 ice cubes, then pour in the vodka and fill with cold ginger beer (not ginger ale, although what the hell).
- Serve with a wedge of lime.
Now that you’re well and truly prepared for the upcoming tournament, all there is to do is wait – the hardest part!
Just in time to grab your very own Official Television of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the 2018 ULED 4K range is available at all major electronic retailers across Australia.
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