Look Forward to the Champions League Final

Article by Paul McIndoe

The Champions League, Europe’s premier club competition, starts off with 32 teams competing to become the best club team in Europe. The competition begins in September, but it’s really only when the competition enters the phase consisting of 16 teams in February and March that supporters begin to dream – and plan – the possibility of their team lifting the coveted trophy. In 2009, the Champions League Final will be held in the Stadio Olimpico, which takes place in what is considered one of Europe’s most prestigious cities: Rome. The stadium itself is synonymous with major sporting events. In fact, it is the location where Andreas Brehme scored from the penalty spot to ensure victory for West Germany in the FIFA World Cup Final in 1990. It is also home to the Italian National team, as well as two of Rome’s top football teams – S.S. Lazio and A.S. Roma. With a capacity of just over 72,000, its historical significance and superb atmosphere ensure it will be the perfect setting to host the 2009 Champions League Final. Of course, following your team to a Champions League Final provides a great excuse for a trip away, but when do you start planning? The quarter-final draw presents each team with their potential semi-final and final opponents; and whilst planning your trip at such an early stage may seem optimistic, it may prove beneficial.The added attraction for supporters is that the 2009 Champions League Final will be contested in Rome, which is a popular tourist destination for visitors to Italy. Therefore, supporters can extend their visit to take in the delights of this historic and romantic city. And whoever plays out the final this year is sure to draw a significant following of football and sports fans alike to the city. Therefore, it is important to remember that leaving the planning of your flights – and even organising to stay at one of the Rome hotels – to the last kick of the semi-final may be risky, and likely to prove more expensive. Such risks need to be weighed up against the possibility of being the only Manchester United fan in Rome during a Chelsea v Arsenal final, for example. The logistics will ultimately depend on your optimism as a supporter, and of course your team’s ability! But with the final being contested in a city renowned for gladiatorial battles, if dreams do turn into reality then it is sure be a night to remember.

About the Author

Paul McIndoe writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.