Overlooking the northern Juffair coastline, amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling city, the Hilton Bahrain has become more than just a luxury hotel; it has transformed into a football haven during the AFC Asian Cup and Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), writes Jayne Houghton.
The five-star hotel’s grandeur takes on a new dimension as it hosts an impressive Fanzone, where football enthusiasts unite to celebrate the beautiful game in an environment that is nothing short of spectacular.
From the moment we stepped into the dedicated area, the energy was palpable. The Hilton Bahrain has spared no effort in creating an immersive experience that caters to both avid football fans and casual observers alike.
One of the standout features of the Fanzone is its strategic location within the hotel premises. Placed in a spacious outdoor area, Cocoluna lounge extension is on the sixth floor, the area is adorned with a plethora of televisions and a mighty big screen at one end of the zone to ensure that every angle offers a prime view of the match. Comfortable outdoor seating with the added luxury of huge bean bags provide that extra bit of snug whilst watching the game.
The culinary offerings at the Fanzone deserve a special mention. The Hilton Bahrain has curated a diverse menu featuring football favourites such as Mexican nachos, jalapeño cheese bites, pepperoni pizza, mini beef sliders and Bavarian hot dogs. The selection of mocktails and premium drinks are served ice cold, and are a welcome refreshment whilst watching the game. The availability of themed food and beverage options adds an extra layer of excitement, allowing guests to savour the flavours of victory with every goal scored.
The pepperoni pizza, crafted with attention to quality and flavour, costs BD6 and stands out as a crowd favourite. The Hilton Bahrain’s culinary team has curated a delectable pizza with a soft dough and generously layered toppings, creating a pizza experience that complements the thrilling football action.
The sliders (BD6), another culinary delight at the Fanzone, offer a perfect bite-sized indulgence. They are meticulously prepared, showcasing a symphony of flavours in each compact serving. The buns are soft and pillowy, the patties succulent, and the accompanying toppings add a burst of freshness.
For those craving a classic game-day treat, the Bavarian hotdogs (BD5) are a must-try. They were a moreish snack with perfectly grilled sausages on a bed of sauerkraut nestled in soft, warm buns.
Adding to the excitement within the Hilton Bahrain’s Asian Cup Fanzone, the atmosphere reached a fever pitch as fans witnessed a hard-fought match between Bahrain and Malaysia. In a nail-biting encounter, Bahrain emerged victorious with a heart-stopping last-minute goal deep into stoppage time, securing a 1-0 win. The eruption of cheers and jubilation within the Fanzone mirrored the intensity on the field, as supporters revelled in the triumph of their national team.
The dramatic victory over Malaysia has set the stage for an even more riveting journey for Bahrain in the Asian Cup. As the nation celebrates the win, attention now turns to the upcoming clash with Jordan tomorrow. With hopes high and anticipation building, Hilton Bahrain’s Fanzone is the perfect spot to watch the crucial match that will determine Bahrain’s fate in the tournament.
Tomorrow’s clash with Jordan holds the promise of more drama and suspense, and the Hilton Bahrain’s Fanzone is poised to be the epicentre of emotions, once again. The anticipation of potential qualification for the knockout rounds adds an extra layer of significance to the upcoming match, turning the Fanzone into a nerve centre of support for Bahrain’s national team.
The Hilton Bahrain’s Fanzone has not only provided a platform for fans to enjoy the matches but has also become a communal space where the highs and lows of the Asian Cup journey are shared collectively.
As Bahrain looks ahead to the crucial encounter with Jordan, the power of football is evident in its ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds in a shared celebration of sport, pride, and national identity.
The stage is set for another unforgettable chapter in football history, and the Hilton Bahrain’s Fanzone is ready to host the passionate supporters.