Day 24: Colombia v. Greece

Finally, the day I've been waiting for: my first World Cup match - Colombia v. Greece!

Although kick off was at 1pm, we started the day early since we knew there would be a lot of traffic on the way to the stadium. Especialy since it was the first match at Belo Horizonte, so we weren't sure how everything would go. Jose Mauricio, a friend of Mona and Iso (her husband) picked me up at the house, and I went with his family to the stadium.

Craziness begins!

There were buses from different parts of the city to get to the stadium (R$15, I think). We headed to one of the bus terminals and waited for a few other friends and family members so we could head to the stadium together. The terminal was full of crazy Colombian fans cheering every 5 minutes. The bus ride took a little under an hour, mostly due to traffic as we neared the stadium. Cars and buses could only go up to a certain point though, and we walked the rest of the way.

The streets were full of Colombian supporters (most all Brasilians were for Colombia). The poor Greeks had few fans present, but I spotted several, and some were even dressed in Greek togas.

There must have been 1,000 Colombian supporters for every Greek fan

At this point, several hundred meters pa from the stadium, there are already barriers and only ticket holders can get through. (Though technically, even if you don't have a ticket for that particular match, you can still get through as they don't check the ticket thoroughly.)

Walking to the stadium

Outside the stadium

Nearer to the stadium is the security checkpoint where they check your bags (no umbrellas, food, water, etc.) and make sure you're a ticket holder (though again, you can get probably get through without that particular match's ticket).

the Mineirão

All set to watch the match!

Personally, I found everything quite organized and there was a lot of space; it didn't feel crowded at all. (They set up the gates and the barriers well, in my opinion). Outside the stadium (but inside the gates), there were several sponsor stands, and lots of food and beverage booths. After the booths you have the gate doors to enter the stadium, and it's at this point where your ticket's barcode is scanned.

We were there by 12, and we split up since we were all in different areas. I was seated on the first level, about 100 meters behind the goal. They were pretty great seats!

Players warming up

National anthems

After warming up and the national anthems, they game begun! It was a really exhilarating experience. Great atmosphere in the stadium; the crowd was so lively and the Colombian fans did not stop cheering.