Last night, Brian and I attended our first Champions League game while we were in Munich. Lucky timing, we’re able to see hometown FC Bayern Müchen face Celtic Glasgow in the second leg of their round. Rather than an account of our travels, I just wrote down some observations. You know, when my fingers actually worked and were not frozen.
- On the train to the game, we were in a car full of fans from both teams. What I found heartwarming was that each side of the fan base let the other do their cheer before doing their own. They took turns, and it was beautiful to watch (and hear!).
- Also, beer (in bottles) on subway trains is a thing. Who knew?!
- It’s amazing how these (Celtic) fans can make this trip in 36 hours, basically.
- Allianz Arena is beautiful when it’s lit up red for a FC Bayern Munich match.
- It’s fucking cold in Germany in February. It was 22 degrees F for most of the 4 hours we were at the arena and the game.
- Scarves make a lot more sense in Europe than they do in MLS. They’re actually needed in Europe as part of the match-going experience.
- The supporters section gets about as much work in as the players: they don’t stop.
- Men’s bathrooms are at a standstill. Even worse than baseball games in the United States.
- There’s still a LOT of smoking in Europe.
- Unlike games/matches in the U.S., everyone leaves the stands for halftime. That could be because they do not leave while the game is happening.
- Ever heard 75,000 people dead silent? There was a moment of silence for the victims of the Munich attack just days before. It was eery how quiet it was. Silence has never been so loud.
- It was a great experience, but a long one. Brian and I left the hotel at 6pm, and didn’t return until 12 midnight.
