Entre Les Murs

One Hour To Kick-Off

We stuck to our plan and got back on the Metro at five, in order to be home at least a couple of hours before the game starts. When we changed at Franklin D. Roosevelt station, the platform was crowded with flag-wearing fans. We elected to wait for the next train, in order to be first on and I was very glad we did; not because the next one was less crowded, but because is was even more wonderfully spirited. Greeting the fans getting on the train, the entire car broke into a full-volume Marseillaise. More cheers and songs, and a few stops later they cheerfully tried, by rhythmic stomping, to derail the car. Everyone was wearing red, white and blue, bien sur, and there were patriotic flags, scarves and make-up (one middle-aged woman wore red, white and blue eyeshadow). Noise-makers, shouting, jokes, and more songs; It was all tremendously good-natured, including the boos upon the discovery of an Italy supporter.

As we anticipated, these fans are on their way to watch the game at the Parc des Princes, a block from our apartment. We can hear the roar of the crowd, and the game is still an hour from kick-off. The honking, trumpets, whistles and cheers promise a raucous evening.

posted 9.7.06