Many bars and restaurants in Beijing began accepting bookings on Monday for the World Cup final, one week ahead of its July 12 kickoff.

"Half of our tables have already been booked," said Zhong Lina, manager of the All-Star Sports Bar and Grill, which is open around-the-clock in Chaoyang district.

Zhong said some bookings came in for the final right at the start of the World Cup but most were made in the past few days.

"Most people pay a lot of attention to the final and bookings come in around a week before the games," Zhong said. "Our tables are usually all reserved two or three days before games during the World Cup."

Other bars are refusing to take bookings and simply advising fans to arrive early if they want a seat.

"Soccer fans should come here at least four hours before the match starts, otherwise they will not be able to get in the bar," said a staff member surnamed Han at Paddy O'Shea's, an Irish-style bar near Dongzhimen Bridge.

Han said they do not accept bookings because everyone will be standing by kickoff time.

With the final set for 2:30 am, Beijing time, on a working day, many soccer fans in the capital will be putting the game ahead of their jobs.

"The World Cup is held every four years and I would rather ask for a day of leave for the final than miss it," said Xu Yue, a 25-year-old male white-collar worker in Beijing.

Xu said he will watch the final, even if it means losing a day's pay.

However, the anticipated crowds at city bars have driven him indoors and he says he will watch the action from his home.

"It is comfortable to watch the match at home with beers and snacks," Xu said. "I usually spend about 100 yuan a night on beers and snacks when I watch games."

Other fans plan to watch from home for other reasons.

"It will waste a lot of energy if I have to go out and search for good seats in bars," said Wu Fan, a female soccer lover who supports Germany.

Wu said she will watch the final with her husband at home and use the energy and time she saves to get to work the following day.

"I can go to sleep at any time if the match is not exciting, which I cannot do at the bar," Wu said.