Football lovers from the Americas came together at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium Saturday to mark the North and South American Fan Leader activation in Qatar, organised by the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC).
Donning the colours and jerseys of their national teams, and carrying the flags of their countries, the fans filled the stadium with their cheers, chants and songs.
Fans from Brazil, Argentina, Ecuador, Uruguay, Canada, the US, Mexico and Costa Rica took part in the initiative.
The fan leaders, along with the representatives of embassies and community leaders, were given a rousing welcome at the stadium where they explored the facilities while interacting with each other. Also, SC officials briefed them on the arrangements within and outside the stadium.
“The preparations and facilities have amazed everyone. Qatar will be a wonderful host of the World Cup,” said Shane McDonald, a Canada supporter. He added that Canadians are keen to come to Qatar and watch their team play in the country.
Ecuador supporter Andres hailed Qatar’s preparations and said the World Cup will be an amazing experience for fans from South America. “Our fans are set to come and watch the games, and Ecuador will be in the tournament with its best team,” he said. Another fan, Daniela, noted that football fever has started gripping the country and many are making plans to fly to Qatar for the event.
Stephanie, a Costa Rica supporter, said fans will have a great time in Qatar and also have the opportunity to get involved in artistic and cultural activities while enjoying the beautiful game.
Morgan Cassell, press attaché at the US embassy, noted that people from her country is one of the top buyers of tickets for the tournament and a huge influx of US fans is expected in November-December. “The US community in Qatar is excited to watch the national team playing in Qatar,” she said.
Exuding confidence that fans in yellow will take over the streets, Bruna from Brazil said her team will win the tournament. “With our best team, we will outshine others and our fans will make their presence felt through their presence both within and outside the stadiums,” she said.
Uruguay fan Pablo said Qatar is well prepared and the tournament will be memorable. “Our team is making all preparations to win the cup and the fans are set to fly to Qatar in order to encourage our team and cheer for them,” he said.
Mexico fan Maria Del Rio said the fans are eager to watch the Mexico vs Argentina match, adding that her team will put up a good performance.
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An Argentina supporter present on the occasion said he was confident that the Lionel Messi-led team will shine at the World Cup.
SC officials handed over mementos to the community and fan representatives at the end of the programme. World Cup legacy ambassadors Mohamed Saadoun al-Kuwari and Ahmed Khalil were also present.
