IT may be the middle of winter, but it's time for another nail-biting round of international football as World Cup fever takes over.
The month-long carnival of football has opened in Qatar and there's matches galore as the group stages get underway.
England take on Iran in their World Cup opener at 1pm today while Wales, another home nation in Group B, take on USA at 7pm tonight.
READ MORE: The best pubs in and around Southampton - according to you
Pubs across the city are likely to be lively, particularly for England's next group game, a Black Friday evening clash with USA.
Here's our pick of some of the best places in Southampton to watch the footy and soak up the atmosphere between now and World Cup final day on Sunday December 18.
5 Rivers Sports Bar & Grill, Bevois Valley
For an amazing matchday atmosphere, head to this sports bar in Bevois Valley.
There are 20 screens spread between the pub's two levels and a covered outside area, so you will always have a view of a TV.
Enjoy authentic Punjabi food and a wide selection of draught beers before kick off, during the match or after.
St Mary's Stadium
Support the Three Lions at the home of football in Southampton!
A series of special World Cup screenings in the Mick Channon Lounge or the Gasworks will follow England’s journey in Qatar.
With multiple big screens, fully stocked bars and an incredible atmosphere, it's the place to be for football’s biggest tournament.
Tickets for England's group stage games are £5.
Sharkey's Southampton
This cavernous venue in Above Bar Street boasts one hundred plus 75 inch 4K TVs on its three floors, so you won't miss a moment of the action from Qatar.
There's also pool tables, darts, PlayStation 5, and more available to book as well as a table with a great view of any of the matches.
There's even a VIP section for that special occasion.
Grosvenor Casino, West Quay Road
Grosvenor Casino is offering football fans the best seat in the house for the World Cup.
All Three Lions matches will be shown so get set for plenty of nail-biting drama.
Food and drink packages including a beer and burger combination from £10.95 or a meat or vegetarian platter for four in the sports lounge.
The Bedford
This Grade II listed historic city pub which has always been a mecca for sports fans.
The Bedford, on Bedford Place, boasts a games room and 11 big screens showing anything and everything from the world of televised sport.
Fans like the great atmosphere, particularly during big tournaments, and all the food and drink discounts in place, even on weekends and matchdays.
READ NEXT: How to watch England v Iran at the Qatar World Cup? Channel and time to watch
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