Hi friends!
My wife (40f) and I (40m) are huge football (like, European football) fans and anytime we go to Europe, we always make it a point to see live sports. We are heading to Poljud Stadium for the game on Saturday May 23rd. We're sitting on the North End. I want to be respectful of the team, fans, supporters, ultras, and city. So I have a few questions to ensure my wife and I have a great time and be a part of your awesome atmosphere and not ruin anyone's good time.
Pregame. I saw that there are a few pregame gatherings...where is the best one for Croatian beer? I also read that fans can be breathalyzed before going into the stadium. Is that common, or just for people visibly intoxicated? Not planning on being the latter until the 90th minute. If you all play any games native to the country, I want to be a part of it!
Chants. I know the supporters will be close by. I dont speak Croatian, but is there a chant that I can learn that would allow me to be a part of the festivities? Are they listed anywhere?
Kits/shirts. Is there a good place to purchase a scarf/hat/kit that isnt €100? I like collecting shirts/kits/hats/scarves from around the world from teams I have seen.
Colors to avoid. Since Ill be in the North end, I want to make sure I avoid wearing opposition colors out of respect for the fans.
Is scarf trading permitted? I have been involved in supporter culture for different MLS and USL clubs. Some are VERY protective of their scarves, some, not so much. I would love to bring some Atlanta United (MLS), FC Tulsa (USL Pro), or Tulsa Athletic scarves to trade for 1-3 Hajduk Split scarves. If it is permitted and acceptable and anyone is interested, Id rather trade scarves than buy.
Smoke/pyro level. This is just for my information. My hometown club does smoke and Pyro, and I love it. I just want to be ready if there is a lot, or if there is anything the club/supporters do that may surprise an American such as myself.
Any other tips? We want to be respectful of everyone, but would love to "tailgate" or meet before the game, meet some people, and have a good time with yall. If you have any pregame/post-game recommendations, please let us know.
Thanks!
See you in a couple weeks. -Matt and Faith
Edit: Thank you all so much for your responses! I can't wait to experience gameday with you all. The videos and research you all are sending is so awesome and making me very excited to join you at Poljud.
I plan on bringing a few scarves with me. If you see someone with an Atlanta United/FC Tulsa Scarf in your travels...totally open to trade :)
See you all soon. This will be a really thrilling day for my wife and I.