XELAJÚUUUUUU!

I somehow made it through 34 years of life without ever attending a soccer game, and I’m pleased to report that streak was broken here in Guatemala.

Last week Club Xelajú played their biggest rival in the national league, the Comunicaciones from Guatemala City. It was a home game at the stadium here in Xela, and since tickets are GA we chose to sit in the rowdy section behind the goal with all of the superfans.

People belted out Xela’s many cheers and fight songs all night long at the top of their lungs, while waving around sketchy renegade sparklers and rainbow smokebombs. Drumbeats, noisemakers, and plenty of colorful expletives pierced the night sky as well, and taken all together the energy in that place was electrifying.

Xela was the underdog, but home field magic worked its wonders that night and Xela won 2-0! It was by far the most fun I’ve had at a sporting event of any kind.

Check out these videos for a little taste of the energy!

GOOOOOOAAAALL! Shirts off after Xelajú scores. Mind you, it was 50 degrees out.

Everyone going wild, and inexplicably lots of banners with Simpsons characters? Not sure what that’s all about, but I dig.

Smells like team spirit!

Author: Annie L

California girl. Lover of light. Fighter of the good fight. Here to share reflections, musings, and tales of travel. Join me on my journey! View all posts by Annie L