Because I like their beer

Because I like their beer

Today was my last full day in Brazil.  It has been an amazing trip and I ended it on a high note by attending the World Cup match between Belgium and Algeria.  The day was very different from the Saturday match between Colombia and Greece when the Colombians invaded the Mineirao stadium and there was just a small percentage of Greek fans.  On this day there were probably an equal number of Algeria and Belgium fans (maybe slightly more Belgians) and another equal part Brazilians.  I was surprised considering there was the Brazil/Mexico match almost immediately following the game.  I was asked a number of times why I was rooting for Belgium since I was in my USA gear.  My answer simply was “Because I like their beer.”

The Algeria fans were a pleasant surprise.  I did not expect there to be so many and they were all dressed in different Northern Africa/Middle Eastern dress.  It was great.  The Belgians had to watch a tough game until the 70th minute when they were able to finally tie and later go ahead and win the game.  They seemed to get better as the match went on.

We were again so lucky to get the seats we had in the lower section.  A great on-the-field experience that will never be forgotten.

And the game started with much anticipation.   The Belgians were being super conservative and the Algerians were sending everyone back on defense and it was really frustrating the Red Devils, their nickname.

The game ended with Belgium winning 2-1.  It was a bittersweet end to our World Cup experience as it just made me want more and more.  I will have to plan on the next trip, I guess….