2009, La Plata, Argentina

In 2009 I traveled to Argentina. During my stay I witnessed one of the most culturally unique experiences in Argentina, the Superclásico. Boca Juniors versus River Plate.

Both football clubs have origins in La Boca, a tough working class dockland area in Buenos Aires. River Plate were founded in 1901 and Boca Juniors in 1905. In 1925 River moved to the more affluent district of Núñez in the north of the city. Since then Boca have been known as the club of Argentina’s working class, or the people’s club, with many Boca fans coming from the local Italian immigrant community. Boca fans are known as Xeneizes (Genoese), by contrast River fans became known by the nickname Los Millonarios (The Millionaires), with a supposedly upper-class support base.

The first leg of the domestic super cup was hosted at a neutral venue in La Plata. Being a neutral venue meant a 50/50 split in the crowds. The atmosphere was electric, the tension palpable, it was an experience I would never forget.

The final score was 2-2.

This photograph is available to buy in various sized prints with many framing options. To view a price list please follow the link and click the buy button:

http://www.louismartinsphotography.com/argentina/e6711f1cf

- Louis Martins Photography

Superclásico | La Plata, ArgentinaIn 2009 I travelled to Argentina. During my stay I witnessed one of the most culturally unique experiences in Argentina, the Superclásico. Boca Juniors versus River Plate.

Both football clubs have origins in La Boca, a tough working class dockland area in Buenos Aires. River Plate were founded in 1901 and Boca Juniors in 1905. In 1925 River moved to the more affluent district of Núñez in the north of the city. Since then Boca have been known as the club of Argentina’s working class, or the people’s club, with many Boca fans coming from the local Italian immigrant community. Boca fans are known as Xeneizes (Genoese), by contrast River fans became known by the nickname Los Millonarios (The Millionaires), with a supposedly upper-class support base.

The first leg of the domestic super cup was hosted at a neutral venue in La Plata. Being a neutral venue meant a 50/50 split in the crowds. The atmosphere was electric, the tension palpable, it was an experience I would never forget.

The final score was 2-2.

- Travel Photography of Argentina by London Photographer Louis Martins