In Havana, scores of Cubans flocked to the entrance of the Yara Cinema to catch the World Cup 2026 match between Argentina and Algeria. This gathering was a response to the ongoing power crisis that has made it difficult for many on the island to watch the tournament from their homes.
Despite Cuba's lack of notable achievements in soccer, the nation's enthusiasm for the World Cup is palpable, as if it had its own team competing. However, the energy crisis wrought by the government has severely hampered the ability to fully embrace the event's excitement.
Photos shared on social media by Pedro Lizardo Garces Escalona depict a crowd of 40 to 80 people, ranging in age, clustered under the arcade’s columns. Some donned Argentine jerseys emblazoned with Lionel Messi's iconic number 10, all focused on a screen set up at this landmark location in Vedado.
Public Initiative Brings the Game to the Streets
This effort was made possible by "Intermedio," a non-state management entity that installed the public screen at the cinema's entrance. Garces Escalona expressed his gratitude in a post, stating, "At this hour at the Yara Cinema entrance, World Cup 2026, Argentina vs. Algeria. Thanks to the non-state management form Intermedio for making it happen."
The match, held in Kansas City on Monday, ended with Argentina winning 3-0, with Messi scoring a hat-trick in a Group J game.
Deepening Energy Crisis in Cuba
The scene highlights Cuba's severe electrical crisis in June 2026, with daily power shortages ranging from 1,630 to 2,085 MW, leading to blackouts lasting up to 22 hours in Havana. In regions like Granma, Santiago de Cuba, and Matanzas, outages have persisted for 40 to 85 hours straight, depriving households of television signals for days.
The situation worsened when the CTE Guiteras plant went offline last Sunday, increasing the projected shortfall to 2,085 MW. For many Cubans, watching the World Cup at home is nearly impossible, making public venues with independent power sources crucial access points for the tournament.
Television Coverage and Public Reaction
Television coverage has also been problematic. Tele Rebelde aired only 10 minutes of the opening ceremony on June 11 before switching to cycling and women's volleyball, provoking widespread criticism. Following public outcry, the channel announced on June 13 that it would broadcast select group-stage matches and all knockout-stage games.
The social media post sparked mixed reactions. While some praised the initiative, others criticized the circumstances that necessitated it. Noel Hernandez Rodriguez commented, "How little it takes to be satisfied." Katia Conde questioned, "Is there even electricity?"
Gina Verdecia's remark encapsulated the disparity in access between central Havana and its outskirts: "Those of us living in the suburbs can't see anything."
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis and World Cup Access
What is causing the severe power outages in Cuba?
Cuba is experiencing severe power outages due to a combination of aging infrastructure, insufficient fuel supply, and mismanagement by the government, leading to daily deficits in electricity generation.
How are Cubans managing to watch the World Cup amid power outages?
Cubans are gathering in public spaces with independent power sources, such as the Yara Cinema in Havana, where screens have been set up to broadcast the matches.
What has been the public's reaction to the limited television coverage of the World Cup?
The limited television coverage has led to public frustration, with many criticizing Tele Rebelde for not airing the opening ceremony sufficiently and for switching programming away from the World Cup.