There is no doubt that one of the most unforgettable moments of this summer in DC came last weekend when three of us went to FedEx Field to see Spain beat El Salvador, and then the Columbus Crew play DC United.
The day started with Spain’s last World Cup send-off match, and it was simply amazing to see one of the greatest teams in history, in person. It was almost surreal to see so many world-class players, many of whom will retire as true international legends, rotate into the game. Even as Spain dominated, it was at the same time amazing to be in a stadium dominated by Salvadoran fans. Their passion was unlike anything I’ve ever seen in soccer, and it was impossible not to join in as they mocked even the tiniest Spain mistake and loudly cheered every one of their few, fleeting moments of possession.
Even more fun came during the second half of the double-header, as we moved down to join a small group of Crew fans. Being a loud away fan is always fun, but seeing your soccer team in a rival’s stadium beats absolutely anything. Because of the abnormal setup at a football stadium, we didn’t have a proper supporters section so we couldn’t stand the whole game, but when things heated up it was a lot of fun to get up and chant, sing, and generally annoy our whole corner of the stadium.
The game ended 0-0 but we still got to leave the stadium on a high note. DC was awarded a penalty in stoppage time of the second half that should have been the winner. Our whole half of the stadium, even quieter people who sat the entire rest of the game, got up to taunt us. But then the DC player completely blew the chance sending it straight to our goalie, and the wild celebration with about 25 of our fellow Columbus fans will live on as one of the most unforgettable moments for me as a soccer fan. I am very glad that while here in DC I had the once-in-a-lifetime chance to see not just Spain, but my team as well.
Marcus Andrews
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