Growing up an FC Barcelona fan, all I ever dreamed about was going to the biggest game of the season; El Clasico. El Clasico is played between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. Their rivalry began in the mid 20th Century, due to political reasons, but nowadays its more of a tradition to dislike the opposite team
A few months before El Clasico my mom approached my and gave me my high school graduation present. El Clasico tickets. I was ecstatic, and began freaking out. I was given a ticket not only to see my favorite team, but also the best soccer players in the world compete against each other.
On March 19th, 2015, my mom, brother and I boarded American Airlines flight 112 headed to Barcelona. When we landed there, the anxiety kicked in. I couldn't wait to step in Camp Nou.
For two days, we toured around the magnificent city, going up and down Las Ramblas, Port Vell and Paseo de Gracia as well as traveling around in the city sightseeing bus.
The day had finally arrived. On March 22nd, at 5pm, we started heading to Camp Nou to watch the two best teams in the world compete against each other. Before the game, there were fans outside the stadium chanting and getting pumped up for the game. They had flares, flags and even fire crackers; it was all I ever dreamed of.
As we made our way into the stadium, I could see why its considered one of the biggest arenas in the world. It had an attendance of 98,760 people. When the game began, I was completely invested in it, and to my surprise, 19 minutes in, came the first goal. The stadium roared, as Jeremy Mathieu ran off to the corner to celebrate with his team mates. The game couldn't have started in a better way. Unfortunately, in the 31st minute, Cristiano Ronaldo tied the game. I could sense the frustration and started to worry, but there was still plenty of time. And then it happened. 10 minutes into the 2nd half, Luis Suarez scores. I almost began to cry, it was so exciting. The game ended 2-1 with FC Barcelona taking the W.
I went back to the hotel with a huge smile on my face and my heart racing. I was ready to go home and share my experience with the people that surrounded me. Hopefully my First 'El Clasico', won't be my last.
