What are your first associations from the phrase "Going to football"? Many people have no pleasant associations with this phrase: inadequate fans, often in a degree, crowds of police and riot police, a bunch of checks, searches and searches at the entrance to the stadium - all these factors, if you still decide to go to football, make you stay nearby with this sports facility as little time as possible.
But times are changing and the approach football clubs to the organization of matches is changing.
I periodically attend football matches of my favorite club - Lokomotiv - for 10 years. And although I only go to the fan stand outside the goal, I cannot be called a fan - I have never bought a season ticket and attended at most six matches per season. The last few years I have not been to the stadium at all for family reasons - the birth of the first and then the second child left a minimum of free time, but this year I managed to go to a couple of matches. And both times I went to the Europa League matches - international tournament among European teams. Having gone to the match with the French “Nice”, I was very impressed with the changes that took place in terms of organizing the fan's leisure time before the game, so for the next match - with Atletico Madrid - I arrived early to calmly look at all the entertainment that the club offers up the game.
But first, one more small lyrical digression. The standard for organizing sports matches of various teams in different types sports is the United States. There is any match, be it basketball, hockey, baseball, American football and even soccer (as they call regular football), which they have the least popular game view sports invariably collects sold out. Football is regularly attended by 40-60 thousand spectators (for comparison, the average attendance of our football Premier League is 13 thousand people). Why is this happening? Because in the USA, a match is not easy sporting event, but also a whole show, with a huge selection of entertainment before, after and during the half-time of the match, contests, a variety of food and drinks. People go to sports match to have an interesting evening, not just watch football.
We have Soccer game is just a football match. I came, went through several security cordons, watched the match, during the break I stood in a huge queue at the stadium buffet, bought a hot dog during the break (or did not buy it if they suddenly ended). But now, at last, the situation has begun to change, and some clubs are trying to make a football match a place of pleasant leisure. It is gratifying that Lokomotiv is among them.
I arrived at the stadium two hours before the match: it was at this time that the entertainment program announced by the club began.
There are not so many people on the way to the stadium, the police are there, but they are peacefully on duty on the sidelines.
There is no excitement at the box office, probably due to the fact that you can enter the stadium with a ticket purchased online (both by printing it and by scanning the code from the phone screen).
Access to the stadium territory. Despite the large number of police officers, all control is carried out by stewards - young guys and girls - the police intervene only in extreme cases. Looking ahead, I will say that in order to get to the stadium, you need to go through three "controls":
the first is the entrance to the territory of the stadium - only the availability of a ticket is checked here,
the second is the entrance to the stadium itself - here the code from the ticket is scanned, everyone goes through a metal detector and the steward probes for foreign objects,
the third - exit to the stands - here the stewards check the ticket so that you do not accidentally get into the wrong sector.
The club engages you in pre-match activities right from the start: after checking the ticket, the steward gave me a lottery ticket for the team of luck. It is issued to everyone who came to the match at least 45 minutes before the start. You keep one part of the ticket for yourself, and throw the other into the drum and half an hour before the match the host of the evening pulls out five lucky tickets, the holders of which are sent to watch the match from the VIP box.
Passing the steward on the territory of the stadium, you come across an illuminated "photo frame" and a couple on stilts. In Spanish costumes, of course.
To the right of the entrance, large fleece blankets are sold for a symbolic 100 rubles. In general, the club did everything to ensure that the fans did not freeze before the match.
Several tents with gas burners were pitched on the territory, it was warm inside.
In addition, in one of them there were tables and warblers and a buffet was deployed (but I will write in detail about the gastronomic possibilities just below)
What really attracts me is the attention to detail. Nice lighting was made in the tents. It would seem that they could not bother about this, but nevertheless they made it interesting.
A little about nutrition in football. Those who periodically visit football know that it is better to eat before the match in advance, as there are wild queues at the stadium at the buffet (which has a very mediocre menu). Therefore, all McDonald's and other fast foods located on the route from the metro to the stadium are usually packed on match day.
There is also a mini food court on the street. And that's really cool.
Shish kebabs and sausages are fried near the tent (they make up the buffet menu in the tent). The stunning aroma of meat roasted on charcoal on a light frost will not leave anyone indifferent. Prices are slightly higher than just in fast food, but here they really cook on an open fire. For a fried sausage with a bun and sauce they charge 250 rubles, a glass of tea - 50 rubles.
There is also a Harbor Food trailer, with approximately the same prices: a sausage in a dough 250 rubles, a burger - 400 rubles.
And Papa John's pizza.
Well, and where without a coffee-mobile with a variety of options for coffee and tea. Yes, they also have mulled wine (of course, non-alcoholic), whose spicy aroma in the cold is very seductive.
In general, it is gratifying that before the match at the stadium there is an opportunity to refresh yourself, moreover, there is a certain variety, although you will have to pay a little more (although part of this money will go to support your favorite club).
Now what about entertainment (I won't refer to food as entertainment).
For many, going to the stadium is memorable event that everyone wants to capture in photography. And it's great that the club understands this.
Firstly, with the arrival of the new leadership, the stadium facade itself was made more photogenic: it was painted in club colors and huge banners with a locomotive and filled stands were hung out.
It looks very powerful.
Secondly, there is someone to take pictures with and in front of the stadium. In addition to the aforementioned pair on stilts, there is also a club mascot:
And golden mimes (also in Spanish costumes):
And the center of gravity: a real locomotive
Immediately on the outskirts of the stadium, they sell club paraphernalia (it was not always possible to buy them on the day of the match either): scarves are sold on folding tables, and next to the food court there is a large tent where you can buy not only scarves, but also T-shirts , and gloves, and whatnot.
An operator walks around the territory, filming the most interesting (in his opinion) and this is broadcast on a large screen next to the stage.
Yes, the stage is not only a tribune for the presenter, who talks about the available entertainment and warms up the fans, but also a place for concerts. Before the match against Atlético, the group Markscheider Kunst played.
Walking around the stadium, I slipped pretty well a couple of times. Actually, in this I was not alone, and only I thought that any good organization can at the moment level out all its advantages with such a trifle, as several janitors with a shovel began to sprinkle everything with salt.
This is perhaps the most pleasant surprise. IN Russian football(to be honest, and not only in football) the greatest rarity is operational reaction to the event.
Through the snow sprinkled with salt, I got to another competition: the penalty competition. Anyone could try to hit the ball into one of the three holes in the wall blocking the goal.
For a successful hit a prize. Girls and children, regardless of the result, were awarded an incentive prize. Plus, this action was accompanied by funny comments from the presenter (there was a separate presenter at this competition, not the one who was on the stage). For all its simplicity, this competition, with its light gaiety and ease, was interesting not only to the participants, but also to outside viewers. Probably, I would have hovered here before the start of the match, but then they announced a light and music show on a steam locomotive.
This is now a tradition before any match. A drummer plays on the roof of the locomotive, all accompanied by a light show and fiery charges from the pipes of the locomotive.
After the fire show on the stage, the winners of the "team of luck" were chosen and the program ended there. Fans flocked to the stadium.
An hour and a half before the match flew by very quickly. And this despite the fact that I did not have time for some entertainment: this is a rugby competition, and face painting, maybe I missed something else.
Perhaps for those who come to football for the first time, my description will seem exaggerated: three and a half tents with food, several mummers for photographs and a couple of contests - that's all there is - skeptics will say. But, firstly, this is a breakthrough for our football, and, secondly, this is really enough, there is hardly enough time for everything before the match, and besides, this is still a warm-up before the main event - football. Accordingly, it is important to maintain a balance and, on the one hand, not overshadow football itself, on the other, not to leave the fan bored before the match. In my opinion, Lokomotiv managed to find that very balance.
The photos of the stands and the inner space of the stadium did not work out for me, it was very crowded and, apart from people, you can't really make out anything on them. In any case, you can easily find them on the club's official website, and they will be of much better quality than mine.
The stadium was almost full. Empty sectors - places for fans of the visiting team and a safety area.
Well, the match ended with a crushing defeat of Lokomotiv 1: 5.
But on the way to the metro, the fans were quite complacent. Maybe because they played with one of the best teams of the world and played boldly, or maybe because a football match ceased to be just a match, but became a way of spending leisure time. And I really hope that the second reason is "guilty" of everything.
Which match to choose and at what price
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In this regard, there are many factors that depend on the game. Prices can range from 10 € to 1000 €. Keep in mind that if you do not want to be left without pants, then it is better to look for tickets for games in October and February and especially avoid months like May and August(decisive matches for the title, in May; and in August, the new team). If the prices for Classico (Barça-Real Madrid) and Champions suit you, you can enjoy watching matches with fewer top teams, but also good ones. But there may be a chance to find free low-cost seats for these and friendlies for 10 €, 50 € o 100 €.
Where to buy tickets
It is most profitable to buy tickets on the Club's Official Page, or through official distributors(ticketmaster.com). For iconic game club such as "Classico", For example, tickets are sold out instantly... In this case, the only way out is to find an unofficial distributor of tickets. But be careful with this, you can run into scammers.
Take your kids or younger brothers with you to play. The atmosphere at the games is quite friendly and cheerful, you will not like the little things! Iconic games (El Clásico, Champions League) can certainly be louder and more active.
Select seats
Choosing a place is a real headache. Keep in mind that each sector has its own atmosphere and, accordingly, different prices. Camp Nou was designed so that wherever you sit, you will have a good view of the field. Some of the cheapest places (category 3) and (category 1) the most expensive.
- General (category 3): High places with good visibility. Don't expect to be able to look into Messi's eyes, though.
- Gol 3 (category 3): Also high places, behind the gates. In general, good visibility. Sometimes this sector is completely packed with tourists, and sometimes it is free. If we get lucky.
- Gol baix (category 3): Right outside the goal, level with the field. Here you will be at the heart of the events itself. In this sector, as a rule, ardent fans of “Barca” hang out and the atmosphere here is very “fire”.
- Lateral General (category 3): On one side of the stadium, with a very good view, but far from the pitch.
- Gol 1 y 2 (category 2): Closer to the field, good view... The perfect place where whole families and the most dedicated fans can meet.
- Lateral (category 1): Good overview and close enough to the field to take cool pictures.
- Prenium (category 1): Simply the best angle to enjoy the game. Of course, the price will be commensurate with it.
Lodging
If you come to Barcelona specifically at Camp Nou to watch the match, please be aware that games scheduled for Saturday and Sunday may be shifted to Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. There can be any reasons for the change of dates, and if you cannot on these days, then the cost of tickets is not refundable.
On the day of the game
How to get there
To get to Camp Nou you have several options. The easiest way to take advantage Metro: Line 3 and get off at Collblanc or Badal: Exits 2 or 17. Or take Line 5 to Les Corts: Exits 17 and 21. Alternatively, you can get off at Maria Cristina Station: Exits 1 to 11. Don't forget that the metro is closing at exactly 00:00 on weekdays, from Mon. until Thursday.
If you decide to use by bus, then here are the routes that will suit you: 7, 15, 43, 67, 8, 74, 75, L12, L50, L60 and L62.
To enjoy the fun atmosphere that can be felt even a mile away from the stadium, we advise walk from the stop... Plus, you can meet other Barça fans, and together it’s more fun, as we know.
On the day of the match, it is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of the game. The stadium has a capacity of 100,000 guests, so it will take time for security to check everyone before all fans can be admitted. Also, arriving in advance can be a great opportunity to stroll through the Kam Nou Museum before the start of the game and take a bunch of photos.
What to wear?
Is there a dress code? Of course not. But do not forget to take all the attributes of the Barca team with you to the podium. Flags, "roses", caps, T-shirts ... For more fun, you can paint your face in the colors of the team flag. Photos and videos at the stadium are welcome. You can bring with you food and drinks in bottles of 0.5 and non-alcoholic. What is definitely not welcome: firecrackers, lasers and other explosive items. There is no wardrobe in the stadium, so the rule "I carry everything with me" applies there. Or everything that is forbidden to carry with you can be left at the checkout and picked up at the exit.
Excursions in Barcelona
Our friends - Team Tripster - offer exciting and fun excursions from local residents in different parts of the world. They are sure that no one can tell about all the mysteries and charms of the city better than those who live there. We invite you to familiarize yourself with possible excursions and tours on their website:
During the game
UAfter you get to the stadium, 90 minutes of indescribable emotions and pure fun await you. Anthem, crackers, laughter, joy and even tears! There are shopping stalls inside the stadium, in case you get hungry from such activity. But alcohol is still not sold at the stadium. You also can't smoke.
After the game
When the players leave the stadium for their dressing rooms, it is time to leave the stadium. To avoid the crowds at the entrance to the metro, you can, as an option, linger for a minute in the bars next to the stadium and discuss the game with your friends. If the match ended with Barça's win or the game was tense, then, as a rule, all the fans then go to the Canaletas fountain at the beginning of the Rambla. Legend has it that whoever drinks from this fountain, no, will not turn into a kid, but will return to Barcelona. And it is a symbolic place where Barça fans have gathered since 1930 to celebrate the team's victory. If the game was really addictive, get ready for big celebration and noise in the streets.
Here is an example of one such celebration
Excursions in Barcelona
We offer you with our friends - the Tripster team :) The guys offer exciting and exciting excursions from local residents in different parts of the world. They are sure that no one can tell about all the mysteries and charms of the city better than those who live there. We invite you to familiarize yourself with possible excursions and tours on their website.
Planning to go to football, but don't know which stand to buy tickets to and fear crazy fans? The portal "ZagraNitsa" will tell you which sector to take tickets to and how not to fall under the arm of overheated ultras
Going to football in Russia is significantly different from a similar pastime in any of the countries. Western Europe... Old and uncomfortable stadiums, police cordon, lack of normal food outlets and mate from fan sectors are integral attributes of almost every match of the Russian Championship. If you are still ready for the test, then our memo will help you spend two hours of your life with maximum comfort (or minimum discomfort).
"Otkrytie Arena"
For the first trip to football, we recommend choosing home arena Moscow "Spartak" - "Otkrytie Arena". This is the most modern and comfortable stadium in the capital, opened in early September 2014. It will host the Confederations Cup and World Championship matches, while the Russian national team and Spartak are playing their home matches here.
Photo: Facebook
It is very easy to get to the Otkrytie Arena by public transport - it is located a five-minute walk from the Spartak metro station of the Tagansko-Krasnopresnenskaya (violet) line. Owners of their own car are better off leaving it at home. Entry to the stadium territory is carried out only with seasonal passes issued when purchasing a season ticket for the 2014/15 season, and one-time passes, which are valid on the day of the match. The territory of the stadium is designed for a limited number of parking spaces, so there will be no opportunity to place cars without a special pass.
It is better to come to the arena about an hour and a half before the start of the game itself. The automated fan pass system installed in the arena works smoothly, but not faster than the usual ticket collector, which manually tears off the back of the tickets. So queues at the entrance are a common thing.
Photo: ooolars.ru The tickets themselves can be bought both at the box office of the stadium and on the official website. "Spartak" in the corresponding section ... It is important to remember that Grandstand B (North) is for fans. Those who do not support their native red-and-white team are very much disliked here. There were cases when tough guys even kicked out those who did not sing from the podium. All your arguments that you bought a ticket and are free to do everything that is not prohibited by the visiting rules sporting events will be smashed to smithereens. Just sing.
By the way, these very rules are regularly violated on the fan stands. If you do not want to be hostage to a performance blazing with flares and smoke bombs several times during a match, look for yourself a place away from the North Stand.
"Locomotive"
Much quieter at the Cherkizovsky stadium "Locomotive". If Otkritie Arena regularly gathers 35-40 thousand people under its arches, then an audience of 10 thousand for Loko is considered quite decent.
Lokomotiv is the first among Russian clubs opened the Family Sector in his arena. Its benefits are clear. Firstly, you can not be afraid that a fire will fly into your child's head or a drunk fan will fall on you (yes, this is possible). Secondly, kids can spend time in a large playroom. Also, those who visit Loko with their families have a number of preferences, such as: the opportunity to bring players to the field, participation in club activities, communication with football players during autograph sessions during the half-time of the match and a separate ticket office. In addition, the School and Student Sectors also operate at Lokomotiv. It is clear that except for students of schools, secondary specialized educational institutions and universities, no one will get into them.
Photo: stadium.fclm.ru 
Family sector. Photo: stadium.fclm.ru If you buy a ticket for the VIP sector, then, in addition to comfortable chairs and a buffet table, you can talk to Olga Buzova or Tash Sargsyan, who are inveterate fans of Loko who do not miss the home matches of the Red-Greens.
South is considered the fan tribune of the "railroad workers". Pyrotechnics on it are an infrequent guest, but if you get to a match of Lokomotiv with a principal rival (CSKA, Torpedo, Rostov or Wings of the Soviets), then prepare earplugs - a mat in the arena will be so selected that children just right will take you to the very playroom.
"Arena Khimki"
Where, where, but at the matches of "Dynamo" obscene language practically does not sound. Dynamo's community of fans seems to be the most friendly, albeit very small. When the club had its own stadium, matches with the participation of the "white-blue" gathered a good audience by Moscow standards. Traveling to the team's games in Khimki is not very convenient. True, in Khimki, Dynamo, as well as CSKA, which we will talk about below, is temporary. On the site of the old and legendary stadium of the same name, where Lev Yashin shone, an ultra-modern arena is being built.
Photo: Convenient, interesting, thoughtful - all conditions for the fans. Both transport and the work of city services are all on the highest level... Enjoy football and no worries! There are only a few simple rules that fans need to follow.
2018 FIFA World Cup Russia ™! The long-awaited football holiday big country... The organizers did everything to make people comfortable and safe not only in stadiums, fan zones, but also on the street. But how this holiday will go depends on us, the fans. Do not interfere with each other, do not create a crush, do not break the rules, just if you know these rules.
In Moscow, for example, the most convenient way to get to the Luzhniki stadium is from the Luzhniki Stadium - this is the MCC station of the same name. It is from this station that you can quickly reach any sector of the stadium. Spend a little more time if you walk from the Vorobyovy Gory or Sportivnaya metro stations. When you leave the subway, don't get lost - volunteers and signs will show you the way.
And from the metro to the stadium "Spartak" is generally a stone's throw. And it is very correct to leave the car in the yard and go to the match by public transport. The more people do this, the more comfortable and free it will be to move around the city. Moreover, the metro will run longer during matches, and there will be more trolleybuses and trams.
There will also be more buses. Beautiful shuttles ride in every city participating in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia ™. There are many routes. The interval is 10 minutes. For example, in Moscow, right from the Park Kultury station to Luzhniki. In Rostov - from the airport to the city.
The spectator gates open approximately four hours before the start of the match. But it is better to come in advance so that you do not get crowded at the inspection and do not stand in lines. It would be more accurate to take cash to the stadium. Not all payment systems accept. And be sure to have a ticket and a fan passport. Without them, they will not be allowed!
Another important detail worth knowing and remembering. On the ticket, all attention is paid to the "Pavilion" column - it indicates the entrance to the arena.
And here are the Moscow addresses of issuance of the main fan document:
Khamovnichesky Val, 34,
Koroviy Val street, house 5, building 1.
Volokolamskoe highway, house 73.
And there is no need to drag out until the last, they say, the match is only in a week. I will have time to get my passport. You will have time to catch up, but how many nerves will you spend in queues again. Do not overshadow the holiday.
It's understandable that you shouldn't forget before the match, but you shouldn't take to the stadium: food and drinks, including alcoholic ones. No bicycles, skateboards, scooters. Also, you cannot bring flags with an area of more than three square meters and umbrellas longer than 25 centimeters. But a baby stroller, a cane, for example, you can, but you will be asked to hand it over to the storage room.
No ticket, no FAN ID? And still, prefer the fan zone on the TV and sofa. fresh air... There is one in every participating city. Here you can play football and watch the broadcast for free. And return home with souvenirs in memory of the long-awaited football holiday of a big country!