A group of us went about 10 years ago to watch Barca v Deportivo and I've got to say it was a fantastic experience the people around us were so friendly and incredibly passionate they sing the club anthem before kick off and it sends shivers down the spine I would highly recommend it
Aye, I've been outside it numerous times, never been to a game there though. Just wondering if it's worth it or a bit too "touristy"
You enjoyed Nou Camp then? I haven't ventured to Barcelona, yet. I'm looking at doing both el Clasico games this season, Madrid & Barcelona.
I always feel the need to do a "normal" game in a stadium before experiencing a derby atmosphere though.
Worked there for a couple of years and went to quite a few games including the El Classico's and champions league games. .... strangely the best atmosphere I remember was when a certain Ronaldinho danced through the Madrid defence to score a worldy for Barca, Madrid lost 2-0 but it didn't stop every fan applauding the genius of Ronaldinho! El classicos are a great atmosphere, league games a little less passionate than the English game, apart from the few hundred ultras behind the net. Love Madrid, love the Bernabeu .... make sure if you go to do the stadium tour!
I was going to do the tour last time but it was 38 degrees and I really couldn't be bothered in that heat! I was caught up the day before in their title celebrations in the middle of Madrid, it was unreal.
I've not been so I apologise for a lack of first hand knowledge here. However, there have been discussions about the atmosphere since the Ultras Sur group were banned for far right leanings a few years back, with their usual two blocks now occupied by more touristy fans. Real Madrid are currently in the process of creating a singing section behind the goal, but not for the Ultras Sur, instead for the more noisy fans who have usually sat up in the Gods. This should be open for this season. It all seems a little contrived, especially compared to the more organic, natural atmosphere of the past. I'd imagine this would be reflected in the atmosphere, but I suppose it's better than nothing. There's an article showing various photos of the same two blocks over the years gradually getting less populated somewhere, I'll have a gander. Always fancied watching football abroad but just never got around to booking anything. Will have to do it soon.
Some good info there, cheers. I knew a bit about the Sur group, but not too much. Some people have likened it to the cinema where everyone sits back with popcorn and waits to be entertained, not sure that's really for me. I prefer a bit of passion and noise in my atmosphere! Also, if you want to know anything about football abroad, feel free to ask.
