We sat and watched for 20 minutes before we knew, without a doubt, what color our team was wearing. “I think we are definitely the team in the white.” We were too embarrassed to verify with any of our neighbors. We were already trying t convince that we weren’t “Nasaras” by speaking the local language. Once we were sure, we watched intently and with full emotion. Then it happened- GOAL!!!
And everyone jumped to their feet. There was dancing, drumming from the row behind us, high-fives (initiated by me of course)… and then magic- the guy in front of us picked up each one of his 3 sons and kissed them (in Burkina where public affection is rare, I was amazed to witness this.) Then another GOAL!! and even more excitement. The male and female dance troupe cheered the team on. Whistles rang for the rest of the game. We won against Guinea.
I’ve been to a lot of different sports games- US Open, football, baseball, etc. But this had the most excitement ever. Join in America and support our soccer teams.
Yesterday, June 20th, we played our neighbor Cote Ivoire in the qualifiers to qualify for Africa Cup. Burkinabé flags soared from motorcycles, stores and bikes. Jerseys were worn by all. Red, yellow and green. Our pride was strong. Then we lost. I only caught the last 5 minutes on TV but we lost. 2 to 3. Shucks.
Guess we wait to September against Malawi to see if we continue forward.
About Me
- k.m. the burkinabè
- I am currently spending 2 years in Burkina Faso, West Africa as a Peace Corps Volunteer. I am originally from the DC area and lived in New York City prior to moving overseas.
3 comments:
you are doing amazing work hun...its interesting you say that they dont do pda in burkina faso...is this a religious influence or just a cultural one? just curious...
u.s. open....
not even comparable.
Hey,
Pam, the excitement was comparable. The tennis audience is stiff, you have to be quiet and controlled or they throw you out.
Mikks, I do not know what it is based on. My guess is a combination of both. But here the religion is based on culture. Islam and Christainity here are mixed with traditional beliefs and certain things are practiced within the major religions to satisfy the believer's desires. For instance, in Islam polygamy and in Christainity ability to drink aka drunkness. The same could be argued about our religious practices in the States so no real judgment, except for the treatment women (I'm judging that and I don't like it, from most groups here, no matter the faith).
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