There are few things better than settling in for a day of World Cup action surrounded by fellow football fans, and the World Cup Live Site in South Bank is set to deliver exactly that. With a packed schedule of matches, big screens and plenty of atmosphere, it's the place to be for anyone looking to soak up every minute of the tournament.

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Before you make a beeline for the Live Site, however, there's one thing worth planning ahead. Food and drinks purchased from South Bank's surrounding venues cannot be taken inside, making a pre-match breakfast, brunch or coffee stop an essential part of the game plan.

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Fortunately, South Bank is home to no shortage of excellent spots to fuel up before kick-off.

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Denim Co.
If your ideal match-day morning starts with brunch, Denim Co. has you covered. The Golden Corn Stack is the kind of dish that turns breakfast into an occasion, layering sweet corn fritters with poached eggs, fresh tomato and avocado salsa, coriander and spicy aioli. It's colourful, satisfying and exactly what you want before settling in for a marathon viewing session.

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‍O Bagel
Football fans know preparation is everything, and the Big Mama at O Bagel is certainly prepared. Loaded with salami, wood-smoked ham, Swiss cheese, rocket, tomato and seeded mustard mayo, it's a bagel that doesn't hold back. The drinks menu deserves attention too. The Tiramisu Cloud offers a decadent coffee fix, while the Strawberry Matcha Cloud and Forest Matcha Fusion provide a creative alternative for matcha lovers looking to start the day strong.

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Coco Bliss
For those seeking something fresh and nourishing before the action begins, Coco Bliss delivers. The menu is filled with wholesome favourites, from acai bowls and smoothies to fresh juices and raw treats. The avo bruschetta paired with an iced latte is a simple but winning combination that never misses.

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Poppies
When you've got a full day of football ahead, a serious breakfast can be a smart investment. Enter Poppies' big breakfast. Stacked with bacon, eggs, spicy chorizo, grilled halloumi, hash brown, avocado, mushrooms, tomato, house-made relish and thick-cut sourdough, it's the sort of feast that feels tailor-made for a day spent cheering from the crowd.

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Vici
Comfort food has a place at every major sporting event, and Vici's baked eggs make a compelling case for arriving hungry. Rich baked bolognese, eggs, parmesan and toasted focaccia combine in a dish that is hearty, warming and perfectly suited to a winter morning.

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C'est Du Gateau
Not every pre-game meal needs to be elaborate. Sometimes a great pastry and a quality coffee are all that's required. C'est Du Gateau has become a favourite among South Bank regulars for good reason, with its cabinet filled daily with buttery almond croissants, raspberry Danish pastries, pain au chocolat and the beloved crookie. Consider it the perfect grab-and-go option before joining the crowds.

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With free entry and a first come, first served policy, arriving early at the World Cup Live Site is highly recommended. Just make sure you leave enough time to enjoy one of South Bank's excellent breakfast spots first. The football might be the main event, but a great pre-match feed comes a close second.

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