Portuguese enclave in Belgium creates 'Portugal 2,000 kilometers from home' for World Cup fans

In the Belgian municipality of Herenthout, a community with a significant Portuguese population, fans gathered at Café Bryaf to watch their national team play Congo in the World Cup. The atmosphere was described as jubilant, with locals noting the "Portuguese vibes" brought by the gathering.

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All Portuguese together, that brings a bit of Portuguese vibes, eh?

Despite the match ending in a 1-1 draw, the supporters' enthusiasm remained high. Café owner Vitor Marques called the evening "the best moment of the World Cup," highlighting the communal spirit of Portuguese and Belgian fans watching together. For many, these gatherings offer a vital connection to their homeland, creating a "little Portugal" about 2,000 kilometers from home.

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You see it on my terrace: full of Portuguese and Belgians watching the match together. That's really the best atmosphere.

However, the performance on the field did not entirely satisfy the fans. Some expressed disappointment, feeling the team could have played better, particularly the midfield. Despite the draw, there was hope that the team would improve in subsequent matches, drawing parallels to past tournaments where Portugal started slowly but finished strong.

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This is a bit of a small Portugal. That's good for us, about 2,000 kilometers from home. You have to come here.

Many Portuguese residents in Herenthout also feel a strong connection to Belgium, with some supporting the Belgian national team, the Red Devils. They express gratitude for their life in Belgium. Yet, when it comes to a World Cup final, their national identity takes precedence, with an unwavering commitment to supporting Portugal.

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I didn't think it was such a good game. It could have been better. We have a very strong midfield with three of the best players in the world right now, but they didn't show enough.