On Sunday, September 1, against one of the most famous and stunning views in Paris during this year’s Paralympic Games, the final Blind Football match of the evening brought together French and Chinese players and supporters under a peaceful Parisian sunset and the golden Eiffel Tower.
The well-known and romantic tower, standing on the Champ de Mars, is impossible to miss. But if you didn’t know where the game was happening, you could just follow the loud cheers of “Allez les bleus” that echoed through the Eiffel Tower Stadium and across the city.
French flags waved around the crowd, contrasting with the smaller but tightly packed clusters of red flags supporting the Chinese team. Despite their size, the strong support from the Chinese fans inspired their players on the field.
Under the slowly setting blue and orange sky, the five-person teams played in perfect harmony with their teammates.
Fabrice Morgado, a player for Team France, said: “We had an intense training session before the Games. Playing together is the most important part of these training camps. Bringing that teamwork to the field is essential for us.”
Using their voices—and sometimes percussion instruments—the home crowd didn’t disappoint in creating the same lively atmosphere that has been present throughout the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“We were expecting a big crowd, but the energy with so many spectators was amazing. Winning for them was the most important thing for us, and starting the competition with a win was crucial, especially against China, who are a strong team,” said Morgado.
Amidst the ups and downs of the noisy crowd, a familiar phrase was heard. “Allez les bleus” echoed again and again from one voice in particular. The source was a small girl in the upper stands on the right-hand side, holding a flag almost as big as she was. There’s no age limit to supporting your home team.
“Of course, we are motivated by the young crowds, but at the same time, it can be a bit nerve-wracking,” Morgado said. “In this instance, the crowd was very respectful, and hearing the voices of all our French supporters was more motivating than anything else.”
However, the chants, cheers, and screams occasionally came to a stop. Out of respect for the players, the crowd is asked to stay quiet during throw-ins and penalties until given the cue to cheer again.
Noise isn’t unwelcome—in fact, it’s an important part of the game. The type of noise at this match was a much-needed support for Team France.
“The crowd was really respectful. We appreciate the quiet moments during the game, but the intensity of the noise actually motivates us more,” Morgado added.
In particular, crowd-led renditions of “Champs-Élysées” and “Allez les Bleus, les supporters sont là” (come on the blues, the supporters are here) served as the backing track that led to Team France scoring their first and winning goal. This sent the crowd into a frenzy.
“The support from our home fans brings pressure, but since it’s positive pressure, it’s a good thing. We’re looking forward to having the same support for the next match,” he said.
The French team faces the undefeated Team Brazil tonight, September 2, in the same arena near the Eiffel Tower, which is very important to the players.
“It’s very symbolic for us. As soon as we knew we would be playing on the Champ-de-Mars, near the Eiffel Tower, we immediately understood the importance of playing here.”
“These are the Paris Games, after all. Just playing here fills us with pride and joy. We understand the responsibility that comes with this,” Morgado said.
