Attending World Cup Qualifiers on South-America’s Pitch

Last Sunday, I showed up an hour and a half early to “El Estadio Olympico Atahualpa,” for the much anticipated qualifying game between two heated rivals: Ecuador and Brazil.  I fought my way through thousands of die-hard fans to find a front row seat at mid-field.  Incredible.  The teams tied at one goal each, but the tension was as thick as the smoggy heat which smothered the open, green field and all of us as well.  Although I was obviously rooting for Ecuador, alongside two other American student-teachers and forty-thousand screaming maniacs, it was a real treat to see my soccer heroes from Brazil, not two-hundred feet away from me.  I actually saw Ronaldinho, Robinho, and other magically-talented, world-class professionals practicing and playing right before my very eyes.  Brazil did not play their best, but they tallied the first goal.  However, with only minutes remaining, Mendez broke past three players, crossed the ball into the middle, another player chipped it with Julio Cesar blocking it; but the ball bounced hard off of his chest, and the substitue, Cristian Noboa, nailed home the loose change—shaking the back of the net, and next the entire stadium.

 

Photo by Erin Clayton

On Wednesday afternoon, I returned to the rowdy arena to watch the Ecuadorian National Team play against their other elimination opponent, Paraguay.  I have to say that this game was even more exciting.  I arrived late, and was forced to stand in the same place for the entire game; however, I was alone this time, so I really immersed myself in the Ecuadorian crowd, sang along with the “Barras,” (soccer songs which support the home team and discourage the other) and jumped with excitement or groaned with disappointment as our heroes for the day moved a size-five sphere around the bright green pitch.  I did not see my Brazilian heroes this time, but Paraguay put on a better performance, and Ecuador dominated most of the game.  This time, we scored first.  Everything appeared to be over and done with, when in stoppage time Paraguay drilled in a last-minute goal to tie the game at one.  After this upset, we all returned to our homes discouraged; however, I was thrilled by such an incredible opportunity to see this great sport—played with such enthusiasm, and supported by the heart of South America.