For those in the UK, the term “football” refers to a game which uses a round ball that is headed and kicked. In the USA, the same word relates to an entirely different game. American football is much more similar to rugby, with an oval-shaped ball which is passed and thrown, not just kicked. Americans call the UK’s version of the game “soccer”, and this term has become widespread around the world.
However, the differences between the two sports don’t end with the physical differences in the games’ rules. There are many other ways in which American football and UK soccer vary from each other. One major difference lies in the fans themselves.
Of course, by their very nature, both US football fans and soccer fans in the UK really love their favorite sport. We only need to examine the sports betting statistics to see the popularity of football betting sites for UK punters and the equal popularity of American football wagering across the Atlantic. However, when it comes to fan dynamics and the atmosphere of the game, there is a world of difference. Let’s take a look at how US football fans compare with soccer fans on the other side of the pond.
The Stadium Atmosphere
The atmosphere in any UK soccer stadium is undeniably electric. No matter how minor the two teams playing may be or how “friendly” the match is, you can guarantee that the stands will be packed with those two teams’ fans who are passionate about the outcome of the game.
Tips for Americans attending UK soccer games often warn that in the UK, the way in which fans watch their favorite teams play varies considerably from that favored by American fans. In America, spectators mostly prefer to watch the game in a quiet and respectful atmosphere. When one team or other scores, there will be cheering and noise, but in between, watching is more important than participating. In the UK, by contrast, there is rarely any quiet in the stands. From the starting whistle to the end of the game, fans will be chanting and singing, often in unison. There are many well-known fan chants which will spontaneously arise from the crowd, and instruments, whistles, and rattles are all commonly heard at any UK soccer game. Banners painted faces, and fans wearing their team shirts and scarves are frequently seen too.
While American football fans are no less passionate about their favorite teams, they have a very different way of expressing themselves. This can lead to some people believing that US football games have less atmosphere overall. Of course, it really does all come down to preference.
The Social Scene
American football games are known for their family friendliness. Often, whole families will attend together to support their team. Tailgating is a common pastime, with barbecues and cookouts, games in the parking lot and a party atmosphere. None of this happens in the UK. Although many people do take their families to matches, there is definitely a more adult vibe in the stands. UK soccer fans often go for a drink before and after the game, but when they arrive at the stadium, the focus is on the match itself and not on a family day out.
This is also borne out during the game. Cheerleaders, quizzes, kiss-cams, and commercial breaks are all standard in American football. You’ll get none of this in UK soccer matches. Although there may be a mascot, you certainly won’t see girls in short skirts balancing in pyramids! UK soccer fans are there to concentrate on the action. This often leads to Americans who attend British games being amazed at the lack of distractions.
Also, in the USA, football fans are allowed to buy beer and drink alcohol in their seats. This isn’t permitted in the UK. While fans often go to the pub before the game for a beer or two, no alcohol is allowed in the stands. You’re also less likely to find nachos and hot dogs at a UK soccer game – although there is food available, it’s more likely to be a meat pie and chips (fries, as opposed to crisps!)
Hooliganism – A Soccer Problem
One downside to UK soccer comes in the form of hooliganism. Although this is the exception rather than the rule, everyone has heard of famous matches where riot police have had to get involved to break up fights between rival teams’ fans. Damage to public buildings, injuries to passers-by and chaos around stadiums are all associated with UK soccer fans. This doesn’t happen in the USA.
American football fans are, in general, a civilized bunch. There is rarely, if ever, any violence between rival teams’ fans. You never hear stories about the police having to be called to stop fights and altercations after a game. For this reason, many Americans are worried about attending UK soccer games. Luckily, however, in most cases, matches go without a hitch and only minor, isolated problems are experienced. Nevertheless, a few hooligans have managed to earn the game a bad reputation.
Two Popular Games
While there are many differences between the two games, it’s clear that both UK soccer fans and American football fans both love their favorite sport. In fact, punters in both the UK and the USA are increasingly betting on both sports, with sites like topratedbettingsites suggesting the top sports betting sites to use for both types of game.
Whichever you prefer, there’s a lot to enjoy whether you’re attending a UK soccer match or an American football game. So why not try both?
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