Leipzig (from our reporters) – Because the morning, Czech and Portuguese supporters have been mingling in Leipzig. At first, followers from the Iberian Peninsula had a slight predominance within the streets, however as time glided by, the crowds from the Czech Republic elevated. “The Czechs usually are not solely our neighbors, however above all our mates. Good luck,” mentioned one of many high representatives of the Saxon area within the metropolis’s fan zone on Augustusplatz. Hundreds of individuals arrived from Czech cities and villages, the environment was combative and pleasant.
The change with the Portuguese occurred in a pleasing spirit. Each camps occupied all of the gardens of cafes and pubs within the metropolis heart, Czechs had been sitting at one, Portuguese on the different, however it was calm. The followers even took photos collectively or laughed at one another in entrance of the TV digital camera. There was a temper that belongs to the Euro.
Czech followers head to the stadium in Leipzig for the match with PortugalVideo: Sport.cz
The legendary midfielder Antonín Panenka additionally got here to the fan zone to greet the Czech followers. Sure, his well-known 1976 Belgrade stunner was additionally proven on the large display, and the grasp with the mustache then carried out it on stage.
Even after the journey to Leipzig, I felt like I used to be driving in Prague, Antonín Panenka is enthusiastic concerning the atmosphereVideo: Sport.cz
“After we had been already driving in Germany, I felt like I used to be in Prague, what number of Czech vehicles had been round us. It is stunning,” mentioned Panenka to the group, which had arrived to cheer on coach Ivan Hašek’s group.
Because it occurs at a giant soccer competition, the followers within the metropolis paraded in several colours. Right here and there you would possibly come throughout somebody sporting a Scotland, Netherlands, Albania, Mexico or hosts Germany jersey. In fact, the quantity seven and Cristiano Ronaldo’s identify tag dominated the Portuguese.
Ivan Hašek’s Portuguese recipe. Exercise, braveness and group performanceVideo: Sport.cz
The climate was sort to the followers for a very long time, encouraging them to refresh themselves. Round 5 o’clock within the afternoon, nonetheless, the sky started to cloud over, and the organizers had the fan zone cleared because of the predicted storm. The followers left her and went to cover within the adjoining restaurant amenities. At half previous six the downpour began, after a couple of minutes the solar got here out once more. There was a riot within the fan zone, however it should open once more for the match. Those that wouldn’t have a ticket will catch a glimpse of the match there.
Most with legitimate tickets moved to the stadium. She eagerly regarded ahead to the kick-off and was wanting ahead to how she would help the Czech group.
