#1: If you’re thinking it kind of seems like I am writing this blog post instead of actually watching the soccer game, well, you’re right. But there is still plenty of time for me to be convinced to head back to FEN and watch it there (my Econ paper won’t mind, right?), so we’ll see what happens as the night goes on.
#2: Although with a little more research, I might be qualified to discuss the effects of hosting the Copa America on Chile’s economy, I will spare you those details. On the other hand, I will absolutely admit to being unqualified to discuss the sport of soccer and most other athletic ventures, for that matter. So this post will not be about anything other than the sheer excitement that can be seen throughout the city today.
When I left my apartment this morning (ok, afternoon), I looked around and suddenly felt like more of a minority in Santiago than usual. This time, I belonged to the minority of people not wearing a soccer jersey or any sort of Chilean flag. Conveniently, the colors of the bandera here are red, white, and blue, so now that I know of this phenomenon, and already being a patriotic Estadounidense, I can possibly fit in a little better the next time Chile plays. And when people dress in the national colors here, there are no holds barred. I would love to post a photo of one of the many random Chilean adults I saw today sporting almost-ridiculous headwear, but I didn’t actually take any such photo, for the sake of the privacy of strangers as well as for the sake of my phone remaining securely in my zippered pocket.
You all know I have a minor obsession with the fact that ANYTHING can be bought on the street here, so of course I was impressed to see the Copa memorabilia and the various items in Chile’s colors that were being sold on the streets today. For a small-scale example, I’ll include a photo of what was being sold at FEN.
Speaking of FEN, apparently we as a school go all-out for this event as well. Between decorations in the cafeteria and a huge tent outside in which to watch the game, school today felt less like school and more like a stadium. Although I didn’t witness any of this first-hand, I have heard rumors that there was also a Copa-FEN-type soccer playoff leading up to the Copa America as well as a cueca dancing competition in the hall. Cueca is the national dance of Chile, and I truly regret not being around as a spectator when FEN students chicken-danced around each other waving some handkerchiefs.
Finally, the Copa America is also a huge marketing opportunity, even for thing such as hamburger buns and dish soap. Yes, I really did purchase the hamburger buns that included a gift of a sandwich bag featuring a soccer game scene and promising to make my sandwich a winner. And, yes, I really did choose the dish soap that claims to be the #1 player in the kitchen. ¿Porque no?
The game is almost starting, so tune in if you’re reading this as I post it and wish Chile buena suerte!
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