MATCH DAY IN ARGENTINA
The build up, the game itself and post-match are a fantastic experience in this South American country. Whilst there has been a problem and to a certain extent still has a problem with football hooliganism in Argentina I would emphasise that in the large quantity live games I have attended I have never witnessed any issues nor have I ever felt in any danger watching a game. The Barra Bravas (hooligans) for all intents and purposes are well organised and are not concerned by tourists attending games at their clubs. That said, it is best not to be extravagant in your actions in and around a stadium and keep any expensive possessions out of sight.
Tickets for most clubs can be purchased an hour or two before kick off at the stadium with the bigger teams providing an option to purchase online in the week leading up to the game. I have been offered tickets by touts outside the grounds of the more popular clubs on numerous occasions however I have never purchased any so cannot say how much they charge, nor can I comment on their legitimacy. There are a selection of independent companies that will offer match day experiences for tourists at hugely inflated prices. I would advise purchasing tickets yourself through the official channels via the football team you plan to watch. However, if you did prefer to go through a ticketing agency then they can easily be found on google.
Clubs will sell tickets in two areas of the stadium. The Platea section is the seating area. The Popular section is less expensive than the Platea and is the terracing area of the ground.
If you plan on attending a game and want to stand in a Popular section, please note that the Barra Brava will enter the terracing just moments before the game kicks off and will occupy the section that has the best vantage point. Ordinarily this is mid centre of the terracing. This area is left empty awaiting their arrival.
Purchasing alcohol within a four-block radius of all football stadiums in Argentina is prohibited in the build-up and during the game. You can thank the Barra Bravas for that! So, at most clubs, fans will buy drinks from a supermarket or off license four blocks from the stadium and then amalgamate outside the ground. Teams will have their equivalent of burger vans outside the stadiums selling Choripan (Sausage sandwiches) and hamburgers. Choripan is a national favourite and highly recommended. There will also be street vendors offering flags, hats and scarves etc. In most cases there will also be someone with a cool box full of beer ready to covertly sell you a lager without the authorities noticing.
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