Euro 2020: English and Spanish Fans Unite in Benidorm's Calle Gerona for Historic Match

Anticipation had been building on Benidorm's Calle Gerona, affectionately known as the strip, since early in the afternoon. Some holidaymakers had travelled specifically to the town in search of the ultimate party atmosphere to celebrate Spain's most British town. Videos of the pandemonium following the semifinal were circulating on social media, described by attendees Jodie White and Chelsea Hancox as 'absolute vibes.' The atmosphere during the match was incandescent, with street performers, fireworks, and colored powder filling the air as revellers chanted England songs. Benidorm, a popular holiday destination for British tourists, saw the town split into two halves on the day of the final - the Spanish side and the English area, both draped in England flags and red and white balloons. To minimize football-related disorder, extra security measures were put in place by Benidorm's council. Despite tensions building between tourists and locals in Spain, the day of the final saw an amazing and friendly atmosphere, with tourists and Spaniards alike enjoying the festivities. Fans praised the Spaniards for their accommodating nature towards their enthusiasm for the match. The atmosphere in Benidorm was described as 'out of this world' by visitors, who had been lured in by the vibrant atmosphere of excitement and celebration. Ashley Cullen and Miles Mackintosh arrived from Manchester after rushing to buy flights following England's semifinal win. They were captivated by the lively atmosphere in Benidorm and were eager to be part of the celebration. Robert Shaw opted for a quieter bar away from the bustling crowd, focusing on watching the game and savoring the atmosphere. A group of young holidaymakers from Derbyshire enjoyed the positive pre-match atmosphere and experienced good-natured interactions with Spanish fans. Anca Fulga and Vicky Yordanova, bartenders from southeast Europe, showed support for both teams with bespoke half-Spain, half-England T-shirts. They expressed their gratitude for the support from English tourists throughout the years. The night of the final promised to be a wild celebration, with fans looking forward to a historic match between England and Spain, uniting both English and Spanish fans in Benidorm's Calle Gerona.

Related Sources:

• Source 1 • Source 2 • Source 3 • Source 4 • Source 5 • Source 6 • Source 7