Saudi Arabia supporters have been handed additional room in the stands before the eagerly awaited meeting with Qatar, after the Qatar Football Association gave up its position at the front of the seating area.
The decision, reported by Saudi channel Al Arabiya, will allow Saudi fans to use the extra space as they prepare a special tifo bearing the words “ عز وفخر” (“Pride and glory”).
The location and size of the supporters’ section are important to the display because such choreographed cards require a clear, sufficiently large area for the intended message to be visible. The Qatar Football Association’s decision to relinquish its front position is therefore expected to help the Saudi supporters complete the display before kick-off.
Fans hope the opportunity will allow them to produce one of the tournament’s most notable moments in the stands. The phrase “عز وفخر” is intended to reflect their feelings towards the Saudi national team and their desire to support the side during the match.
The arrangement has given the Saudi supporters a chance to create a striking atmosphere for the Gulf clash, with attention now turning to how the “عز وفخر” tifo will appear when the teams meet.
