Telegraf watched Serbia's first World Cup game in Sarajevo: It was much different than "on home turf"

Telegraf reporters found themselves in Sarajevo during last night's football match between Serbia and Brazil, the first for both teams in the group stage of the World Cup (Serbia lost 0-2).

There was no pub or cafe where people were not having a drink and watching the game.

"Who are you rooting for?," one Sarajevo resident joked.

"Me, for those in blue shorts," said one (meaning Brazil).

"I support the neighbors (meaning Serbia)," said the guy next to him in a quiet pub where we were welcomed with care. "Unfortunately, we (Bosnia and Herzegovina) didn't qualify, but when that's the case we always cheer for our neighbors," another one told us.

One joked that they were going to vote, so he would support whichever team the whole bar decided.

There were also those places where the patrons passionately supported Brazil. Whenever there was an opportunity for the Brazilians to score against Serbia, the whole place would focus, and when the goals were scored, everyone cheered with joy.

Both men and women enjoyed the game. The fighting spirit of our boys was such that it justified the old saying that it is important to participate, even to lose honorably.

Watching them play from the city on the Miljacka was a completely different experience than on "home turf." No matter who they supported, the locals in Sarajevo showed great hospitality and hosted us well.

(Telegraf.rs)