Omani football fan overwhelmed by Russian hospitality, heritage

Muscat: An Omani football fan has praised Russian hospitality shown to foreigners during this year’s World Cup, where he and many of his compatriots were on hand to witness the biggest sports event of the year.
Speaking exclusively to the Times of Oman, Abdul Wahab, a young Omani from Muscat said, “Travelling to live the world cup atmosphere was a dream come true. Since I was a child, I wished to watch a world cup game live from a stadium.
“I remember the warm welcome we received when the plane landed. Russian people have gone above and beyond to accommodate people from around the world. They will cheer for every country, they will chant with you,” he added.
Largest Russian stadium
“The first game I watched was in Luzhniki stadium; the largest Russian stadium with an incredible capacity of 81,000, during a game between Morocco and Portugal. It was full, yet we still moved about the stadium with ease due to the great efforts of volunteers at the World cup,” said Wahab.
His experience extended beyond the World Cup and into the cultural and architectural heritage of Russia. “Moscow is a great city with a lot of heritage and a very long history, and their museums are well designed and very educational. The metro systems and buildings display magnificent architecture. But it is his recollections of the beautiful game that have remained the Omani’s favourite.
“One of my favourite memories are when we were interviewed by Bein Sport Channel. Also, Red Square, where all the fans meet to sing along in a very joyful atmosphere.”