As the 2026 FIFA World Cup prepares to kick off on June 11, football fever is already sweeping across Guangzhou, where festive decorations have been rolled out to share the excitement with fans.  

At the bustling Four Seas City mall in Panyu district, giant inflatables featuring Lionel Messi — and even a football-playing capybara — have become a centerpiece, drawing crowds and sparking joy ahead of the tournament.  

Photos by China Daily photographer Parker Zheng provide a glimpse of how the city is embracing the global celebration of football in its own creative way.