The 2022 FIFA World Cup started last week in Qatar. For the love of what is arguably the most popular sport in the world, two artists — Dr Sabina Hussain and Mairaj — have painted the flags of their favourite teams on the walls of Karachi. Dr Sabina, who lives in Siddique Goth, Malir, supports Germany. The 24-year-old Mairaj, who’s an AC technician by profession, is a fan of French footballer Karim Benzema. A team sport second only to cricket in Pakistan, football is a popular game with a large fan following among the country’s youth. This year, football fans are showing great enthusiasm for the global sporting competition by painting the walls of their houses with the national flags of their favourite teams as well as those of the top players. The murals can be seen in Lyari, Malir and other areas of Karachi where enthusiasts are growing their subculture. Many fans have also flooded narrow lanes in their neighbourhood with the flags of all participating teams. The youth are spending more time on the city streets with their footballs. Big screens have also been installed for fans to watch live telecasts of the matches.