We have seen ardent football fans painting their streets or houses in the colours of their favourite teams to express their support. But something completely opposite and unique has happened in Brazil this time.
Yes, in Brazil! While the South Americans are known as one of the most passionate bunch of fans, few Brazilians in the Teresina city of Piaui state have painted their street with colours of Argentina.
The residents of Eight Street in the neighbourhood of Real Copagre in Teresina have decided to support Argentina this World Cup as a protest against the Brazil national team and the country’s political situation.
The idea was conceived by local resident Raimundo Junior after Brazil were handed a humiliating 7-1 loss at the hands of Germany in the 2014 World Cup semi-finals, which was also hosted by the South American nation.
In 2014, the local residents had painted their street in Brazilian colours but decided to support Argentina in 2018 after the disappointing loss.
Raimundo’s resolve got stronger due to the delicate political situation in the country and the idea also became a sign of protest against corruption in Brazil.
“The idea came soon after Brazil lost the last World Cup at home, 7-1, so I decided to change the fans, and now let’s hope for Argentina. I thought doing this could end up serving even as a form of protest. I’ve never been there, but I think it’s better than here in Brazil. Even by the situation the country is in. Brazil is out. Even with the selection staggering, let’s hope for Argentina,” Raimundo was quoted as saying by media reports.
While Raimundo started on its own, he soon gained sympathy of his neighbours who contributed R$ 25 each to buy paint and flags.
The residents of the Eight Street are now determined to back Argentina throughout the World Cup.