The #LigaBBVAExperience is about much more than just football

I have experienced so many emotions over the last three days, it is difficult to take it all in. To put it another way, it is time to return home and I still cannot believe everything I have experienced thanks to the first edition of the #LigaBBVAExperience held in Seville.

I remember how excited I was when I learned that I was going to travel to Spain and finally fulfil my dream of being able to witness a Liga BBVA game live from the stands. As if that were not enough, I would get the opportunity to attend the famous Seville derby, having heard so many stories about the passion unleashed among the fans of both teams.

As a huge LaLiga fan, I have watched many games played at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan stadium on television. And I could appreciate their beauty from a distance, but I have to admit that the effect that watching it in person had on me was incredible. What a wonderful anthem! I will never forget the moment when the entire stadium rose to its feet to sing it with all their might. It gave me goose bumps.

The atmosphere was amazing throughout the 90 minutes of the match. It was just the way I had imagined it, because I have always adored the passion that LaLiga fans bring to every stadium. I loved watching the two teams fight tooth and nail for every ball and that they were constantly looking to score. I had to take my hat off to the touch of Ever Banega, the quality of Jose Antonio Reyes, and the goalscoring instincts of Kevin Gameiro. To top it all, Coke gave us an absolutely brilliant goal that lifted me out of my seat with my hands on my head. What a strike!

This trip has further strengthened my love for LaLiga, but I would also like to stress that the #LigaBBVAExperience is about much more than just football. Once again, it is hard to find the right words to describe it. It was an experience that allowed us to form part of Spanish culture and to experience how they understand life and sport. It is true that I will remember the magic of the game, but the city’s charm, its cuisine and the warmth of the people will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Thank you LaLiga! Thank you beIN SPORTS!