Anticipation was high as L and I took the 30 minute metrobus ride to the stadium last night. I had no idea of what to expect. Sure, I've been to a Minnesota Thunder game once when I was 11 years old, but what kind of comparison is that? Fútbol is in the blood of all Ecuadorians, and for that matter, the rest of the world. The sport encompasses all other aspects of culture, politics, regionalism, you name it. They live for these games!
Thousands of people were crowding outside of the entrance before the match started. Dozens of vendors were selling candy, tickets, jerseys, jackets, scarves, hats, flags, umbrellas, and ponchos. At the stadium there are two kinds of seating. There was general -- which sits behind either goals in the open for six dollars a ticket. Manolo suggested that we buy Tribuna seating, for ten dollars, which sits on either side of the field. These seats are also located under the roof, which explains the jacked-up cost.
As we walked into the stadium, the opening ceremony began. Fireworks, and the shouting, cheering and cussing of thousands of Quiteños drowned out any thought I had beforehand. L and I were completely in awe.
The air was electric. I've been to games before, but the concerted cheering was simply awesome. On the far side in general were all the die hard fans. Before and through the entire game, they were jumping in unison, chanting, and waving the Liga flag. I want to learn at least one of the dozen chants I heard. A few words from one were, "Me voy a tomar una cerveza." That pretty much sums it up right there. General seating is where the spirit is at. That's where I'll be next game.
As for the match itself, Liga Deportiva Universitario (Quito) played against Fluminense, a Brasillian team based out of Rio de Janeiro. This match is part of for La Copa Santander Libertadores de América. It's an international tournament whose qualifying teams are some of the best in South America. In short, it's a big deal here. I was wondering throughout the match, though, if Liga gets a noticable advantage because of the altitude. Back and forth the entire 90 minutes, the match ultimately ended in a draw. At least there were a lot of bookings ,though; even the Liga goalie earned a yellow card for his aggression. Very intense.
OLE!
1 comment:
hi u, im nicolas, a quiteño, im an until dead liga fan and if u want i could write all the liga songs and send them to u, im impressep by reading in ur profille that quito is one of the most dangerous cities, maybe it is for gringos because thiefs think are vulnerable but u have to know where to be to feel safe, for any comment or information or question u can mail me to my hotmail... chistesuarez@hotmail.com
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