FIFA Nights:<br> The Manager Edition

The greatest show on Earth is on.
The earliest match we get is at 10 pm and the rest come in much later. Having turned ourselves into nocturnal beings temporarily, it only makes sense that we use the time to our full capacity. And nothing comes close to celebrating the essence of football and night than hosting or attending a 'FIFA night'.

Photo: Sohail Anwar

A FIFA night by definition would be an event where friends meet to enjoy watching a game or playing any football game on a console. It might sound simple and fun but we hardly go by definitions. The nights usually end up as crazy memories and a football hangover the next morning. For the best FIFA night experience, here are some tips:

* If you are hosting, you will have your plate full both literally and metaphorically. You will have to arrange the ambiance, set the time and take responsibility for all actions. Be it your living room or bedroom, make sure that your family members are able to sleep over all the hubbub.

* BYOC -- bring your own controller, for the console. And add spare batteries, multiplug, HDMI cable and even food to that list. It's best to double check on what you need beforehand and let everyone know how they should contribute. Be the manager.

* Stock up on food because you know you have to. Popcorn, chips, chocolates and even chanachur work fine for a long night. You could go healthy and manage some fruits as well. Mind you, having drinks is inevitable so never run out of it.

* If you and your buddies plan on holding a custom tournament, the best advice would be to set the rules and choose the teams beforehand. Otherwise it takes time and ends up in scuffles and heartbreaks. Plan ahead to avoid mismanagement and a bloodshot stare from your parents at night.

* When inviting friends, the more the merrier yes, but messier. Invite a small group unless you're absolutely sure you can supervise tons of people. One question though: when there will be people thumbing away on their controllers, what will the rest do? Think about it.

* The sad thing about a FIFA night is that time flies and you wish it went on and on. Not to worry though because there will come more opportunities and you can already sit down with friends and make a routine for it. Now that Ramadan is here, I'm pretty sure I'll be invited to a few FIFA sehri parties too. So why wait? Get your game face on.