Watching World Cup matches at 2am? Here’s how to make it pay

A 2am World Cup kick-off might not be ideal, and giving up sleep to watch football isn't everyone's idea of fun.

But if you're determined to be awake for the nocturnal games, why not make the most of it?

Middle-of-the-night matches can actually give you opportunities to save money, get organised, and even earn a little extra cash while most of the country is asleep.

Here are some smart ways you can turn those late-night World Cup fixtures into a win, whatever the final score.

Take advantage of cheaper energy

If you're already awake at 2am, you could use the opportunity to run some of the household appliances that cost the most to operate.

Many energy providers offer cheaper electricity during off-peak hours. Traditional Economy 7 tariffs, EV tariffs, and modern time-of-use plans often provide lower rates overnight when demand on the grid is lower.

That means putting the washing machine on during a 2am match could cost you less than running it during the day.

You can also use the same principle for:

• running the dishwasher
• charging your phone, laptop, or electric vehicle
• using the tumble dryer
• heating water if you're on a tariff that benefits from overnight usage

Even making your half-time cup of tea or taking an early-morning shower could work in your favour if you're on the right tariff.

In fact, former England stars Jermain Defoe, Ray ‘The Romford Pelé’ Parlour and Toni Duggan have teamed up with E.ON Next to encourage football fans to make the most of overnight energy savings during late-night matches.

Sort out your finances at half-time

You don't need to spend the entire half-time break scrolling social media.

A 15-minute break is the perfect opportunity to tackle some financial admin you've been putting off.

You could:

• cancel subscriptions you no longer use
• review your monthly spending
• move money into a savings account
• check for better deals on broadband, insurance, or mobile contracts
• set up automatic savings transfers
• review your direct debits

These are small jobs that can get delayed for weeks, but completing just one could save you money every month.

Turn match time into side-hustle time

The shops may be closed, but the internet never sleeps.

If you're naturally awake for a late-night game, you could spend some of the build-up, half-time, or post-match period working on a side hustle.

Freelance platforms such as Fiverr and Upwork connect you with clients around the world, many of whom are operating in completely different time zones. While it's 2am for you, it could be the middle of the working day elsewhere.

You could offer services such as:

• writing
• graphic design
• social media management
• virtual assistance
• video editing
• website support

Even a few hours each week can help build an additional income stream.

Sell things you no longer need

While you're watching the game, why not sort through your wardrobe, cupboards, or spare room?

Most of us have clothes, gadgets, books, and household items sitting around unused.

Use the time to photograph them and list them on platforms such as:

• Vinted
• Facebook Marketplace
• eBay
• Gumtree

You don't need to sell everything at once. Even listing a handful of items during a match could put some extra cash in your pocket.

Get paid to play games

If you're already spending time on your phone or games console between matches, you may be able to earn rewards while you play.

Several gaming and testing platforms like PlaytestCloud and Swagbuck, reward users for trying games, providing feedback, or reaching certain milestones.

Rewards are usually paid as cash, points, or gift cards, and developers use the feedback to improve gameplay and fix bugs.

You won't get rich, but it's one way to make your screen time work a little harder.

Plan your week before everyone else

One unexpected benefit of being awake while everyone else is asleep is the lack of distractions.

Use the quiet time to:

• plan your weekly meals
• create a shopping list
• book appointments
• organise your calendar
• set goals for the week ahead

A little organisation at 2am could save you both time and money later in the week.

Learn something new

Not every minute before kick-off needs to be spent staring at pre-match analysis.

You could use some of the downtime to improve your skills through free online courses, tutorials, or training videos.

Whether you're learning a new language, improving your Excel skills, studying for a qualification, or exploring a potential side hustle, those otherwise wasted late-night hours can become surprisingly productive.

Batch your household tasks

Nobody enjoys chores, but they feel much less painful when they're done while you're already awake.

Between matches or during quieter moments, you could:

• iron clothes
• prepare packed lunches
• tidy a room
• organise paperwork
• clean out your email inbox

A World Cup match at 2am may not be ideal for your sleep schedule, but it doesn't have to be a complete write-off.

But if staying up through the night sounds like your idea of torture, don't worry. There are still plenty of opportunities to cash in on football fever without sacrificing your sleep.

Check out these 10 side hustles that could help you score big during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.