Tonight was one of those we’re really living in Portugal kind of nights.
We went to see Portugal vs. Wales, and somehow ended up with amazing seats right near midfield. Even better, Cristiano Ronaldo played, which made the experience that much more memorable especially for Decklan.
One of the first things that surprised us happened before we even got to the stadium. When we bought the tickets, there was actually a warning that you couldn’t wear the opposing team’s jersey in our section. Apparently, there would be no casually showing up in Wales gear and hoping for the best.
Once inside, the energy was incredible. Portuguese fans know how to create an atmosphere. There was constant singing, chanting and cheering, and the whole stadium felt involved in the game rather than simply watching it.
The stadium food came with its own little Portuguese twist. The kids got hot dogs topped with potato sticks, which they were very happy about. Another unexpected discovery: the beer at the stadium is non-alcoholic. Not exactly what we were expecting at a European football match!
Concessions are not the same as in the US. At half time, most food was sold out and options were limited. The kids hot dogs covered in potato sticks.
Decklan and his buddy fully embraced the experience. They got a Portuguese flag and spent the game waving it around and cheering along with everyone else.
And then Ronaldo scored. GOOOOOOOOOOOOOLO!
The stadium erupted; only for the goal to be reviewed by VAR and taken away. For a few minutes, though, we got the full experience of being in a Portuguese stadium when Ronaldo puts the ball in the net.
Portugal still came away with the win, 1–0.
