It’s stirred up its fair share of controversy – and that’s before a ball has even been kicked – but, love it or hate it, the World Cup is here and will no doubt dominate your agenda for the next five weeks. 

The biggest tournament ever with 48 teams, it takes place in the USA, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July. 

Expectations, as ever, are high and England kick-off their tournament against Croatia on 17 June (9pm) before playing Ghana on 23 June (9pm) and then Panama on 27 June (10pm) in Group L.

The time differences can make viewing awkward but there are plenty of venues around the city who will be accommodating even the most ardent supporters the best they can. Some venues need to be booked in advance, some are outside and will be weather dependent but all will guarantee a cracking atmosphere and probable renditions of Sweet Caroline and Gala’s Freed From Desire.

Common Room
Sheffield’s original sports bar will be showing every game across more than 50 TVs. Secure your seat for £20pp and choose between a food platter and drink or a £20 bar tab. England fans can also enjoy 30 per cent off draught pints and five shots for £15 for one hour after the final whistle.

Abbeydale Ballroom
Watch matches indoors or head to the outdoor fan zone for England games on a huge LED screen. Expect live music, a BBQ and an outdoor bar. Book a table in the main bar or arrive early and grab your spot outside.

Saw Grinders Union
The Kelham Island venue will be showing every England game on a huge outdoor screen in their courtyard. An outside BBQ and bar will serve throughout – it’s the ultimate place to watch the action. Seating available on a first come, first served basis. Tickets £5.

The Box
Right in the heart of the city centre, The Box is geared up for every sports fan with 30 HD screens, tiered seating, food, drink and more. Book your table for the big tournament now.

The Wildcard Bar & Grill
Sheffield’s first luxury sports bar and grill has over 40 screens and will get you in the mood with its American food – think burgers, pizzas and their famous wings – choose from 10 to 180. 

Earl’s Yard
This new independent outdoor venue brings food, live entertainment, big screen sports and community events to Matilda Street. Opening on 13 June, the venue will feature a two-storey, 40-foot-long container bar, with the upper level operating as a dedicated cocktail bar and mezzanine overlooking the courtyard space. The site will also include communal seating areas, a live performance stage and two large LED screens for sport and entertainment screenings throughout the year. Independent food brand Pieminister is Earl’s Yard’s first permanent kitchen partner, with additional food traders and pop-up vendors to be announced in the coming weeks.

Sidney & Matilda
Known for its live music, Sidney & Matilda will be switching their attention to soccer and showing the England matches live. Entry is free and there are no bookings, so make sure you get down early.

Panenka
Gather your mates and soak up every minute of the action at Panenka. Watch every match across 35 screens and enjoy premium house line pints from just £4.95. Two hours of bottomless beers from £29.95. Walk-ins are welcome but booking is advised. 

SteelYard Kelham (Hangr Warehouse)
New venue, Hangr Warehouse, which is aligned with SteelYard Kelham, provides a cavernous destination to watch all the World Cup action. With 4,000 square feet of event space, there’s plenty of room to catch all the action – and no doubt get soaked in a beer or two.