Soccer Bar Guide: 10 Best Places to Watch Live Football Matches Near You

As a lifelong football fan who’s spent more nights than I can count huddled in pubs with fellow supporters, I’ve come to appreciate that watching a match in the right atmosphere is almost as thrilling as being in the stadium. There’s something electric about sharing those moments—the collective gasp at a near miss, the roar when your team scores, the groans when the referee makes a questionable call. With the 50th season of the league just around the corner, and the news that a newly-designed championship trophy will be unveiled on the season opener, the excitement is palpable. I’ve made it my mission to scout out the absolute best spots to catch the action live, and I’m thrilled to share my personal top 10 picks for soccer bars near you. Trust me, I’ve done the legwork so you don’t have to.

Let’s kick things off with The Staggering Goat, a place I stumbled upon during last year’s Champions League final. Tucked away just off Main Street, this pub boasts 35 high-definition screens, including a massive 180-inch projector screen that makes you feel like you’re on the pitch. The owner, a former semi-pro player, ensures the sound is cranked up for big games, and they’ve got a kitchen that serves the crispiest fish and chips I’ve ever had—seriously, it’s a game-changer. They’re already planning a special event for the season opener, complete with trophy replica displays to celebrate the new design. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve ended up here for derby matches; the energy is just infectious, and the crowd skews toward die-hard fans who know their stuff. If you’re looking for a no-frills, passionate environment, this is your spot.

Next up is The Midfield Maestro, a slightly more upscale bar that I frequent for international fixtures. Located in the city center, it’s got a sleek, modern vibe with 25 screens strategically placed so you never miss a moment, no matter where you’re seated. What sets it apart, in my opinion, is their craft beer selection—over 40 local and international brews on tap, including a limited-edition lager they roll out for major tournaments. I still remember watching the World Cup qualifiers here last year; the place was packed, and the staff handed out team scarves to get everyone in the spirit. For the upcoming season, they’re rumored to be hosting a pre-match panel with former players to discuss the new trophy unveiling, which I’m definitely not missing. It’s a bit pricier, sure, but the quality of the experience justifies it, especially if you’re like me and appreciate a good pint with your football.

Then there’s The Penalty Box, a cozy basement bar that feels like a well-kept secret. I first went there on a friend’s recommendation and have been a regular ever since. With just 10 screens, it’s more intimate, but that’s part of the charm—you end up chatting with strangers like old mates. They specialize in pub grub with a twist; their loaded nachos are legendary, and I’ve probably single-handedly kept them in business with my orders. During the last league season, they streamed every match live, and the owner told me they’re planning a “Trophy Unveiling Party” for the opener, complete with trivia contests and giveaways. I love this place for midweek games when the crowds are thinner, and you can really focus on the tactics. It’s not as flashy as some others, but the sense of community is unbeatable.

Moving on, The Crossbar Cafe is a hybrid spot that blends a coffee shop by day and a football hub by night—perfect for those early weekend kick-offs. I often drop by for breakfast before a match, and their full English breakfast is top-notch. They’ve got about 15 screens, including a few outdoors for when the weather’s nice, and I’ve spent many a sunny afternoon there with a cold drink in hand. What impressed me most was their commitment to lesser-known leagues; they’ll stream matches from places like the Brazilian Serie A, which is a nice change of pace. For the 50th season, they’re collaborating with local artists to create a mural inspired by the new trophy design, adding a creative touch to the festivities. If you’re a fan who enjoys a more relaxed vibe without sacrificing the excitement, give this one a try.

Another favorite of mine is The Offside Tavern, which I discovered during a nail-biting playoff final. Situated near the university, it draws a younger, rowdier crowd, but in the best way possible. With 20 screens and a dedicated “singing section” for anthems, it’s like a mini-stadium experience. Their drink deals are insane—I’ve seen pitchers of beer for as low as $10 during happy hour—and the atmosphere peaks during rivalry matches. I have a soft spot for this place because it’s where I met my current group of football buddies; we’ve been watching games together for three seasons now. They’re going all out for the season opener, with plans to live-stream the trophy unveiling ceremony and host a post-match DJ set. It’s loud, it’s lively, and if you’re in the mood to let loose, this is the bar for you.

On the quieter side, The Tactical View offers a more analytical take on football viewing. I head here when I want to dissect the game with fellow tactics nerds. They’ve got 12 screens, but the real draw is their pre- and post-match discussions led by local coaches. The menu is health-conscious, with options like quinoa salads and grilled chicken wraps—a refreshing change from the usual fried fare. I recall one evening spent debating formations over a match replay; it was intellectually stimulating in a way most bars aren’t. For the 50th season, they’re organizing a series of talks on the evolution of football trophies, tying into the new design unveiling. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re like me and enjoy deep dives into the sport, you’ll feel right at home.

Then we have The Golden Boot, a family-friendly pub that I’ve taken my kids to a few times. With a dedicated play area and kid-friendly menus, it’s perfect for introducing the next generation to football. They have 18 screens, and the volume is kept at a reasonable level, so you can actually hear yourself think. I appreciate how they cater to all ages; last season, they hosted a “Junior Fan Day” with face painting and mini-games, which my little ones loved. They’re planning a similar event for the season opener, including a trophy-themed coloring contest. It’s a wholesome option that doesn’t skimp on the football passion, and I’d rate it highly for family outings.

For those who crave a touch of nostalgia, The Old Ground is a historic pub that’s been around since the 1970s. I’ve spent countless afternoons here, surrounded by vintage memorabilia and black-and-white photos of football legends. With only 8 screens, it’s quaint, but the sense of history is palpable. The owner, a retired referee, often shares stories from his days on the pitch, and I’ve learned so much from those chats. They’re marking the 50th season with a special exhibit on past trophies, leading up to the new unveiling, which I think is a brilliant way to honor the legacy. It’s my go-to for classic matches and quiet reflections on the game’s evolution.

Lastly, The Victory Lane is a sports bar chain with multiple locations, but the downtown branch is my preferred one due to its sheer scale. With over 50 screens and a state-of-the-art sound system, it’s a sensory overload in the best way. I’ve been there for major finals where the crowd exceeded 300 people, and the energy was electric. Their food menu is extensive—I’m partial to their buffalo wings—and they often run promotions like free jerseys for early arrivals. For the season opener, they’re partnering with a local brewery to launch a commemorative beer, and they’ll broadcast the trophy unveiling live on all screens. It’s a bit commercial, I’ll admit, but sometimes you just want that big-event feel, and this delivers.

In wrapping up, finding the perfect soccer bar is a personal journey—one that’s shaped by your preferences for crowd size, food, and overall vibe. As we gear up for the 50th season and the unveiling of that newly-designed championship trophy, I’m excited to revisit these spots and create new memories. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a hardcore fan like me, I hope this guide helps you discover a place where the beautiful game comes alive. After all, football is about more than just the score; it’s about the shared experiences, the friendships forged, and the passion that unites us all. Cheers to a fantastic season ahead—see you at the bar!