Soccer brings people together
On the eve of the highly anticipated semifinal, Riga was awash in orange hues as the locals prepared a traditional dish, carrot mash (Burkanu kartopeli), to mark the occasion. Even some Turkish friends joined in the festivities, gathering to eat and watch the match in Riga's version of the ‘Vondelpark’.
The celebration of unity was already a success before the game even started. The match itself was merely the cherry on top. Whether winning or losing, the spirit of camaraderie remained strong. After the game, a Turkish friend jokingly remarked, “Welcome to life, now we are all losers... unity forms itself in lasting solidarity.”
True warm meetings from the heart await more to come, as Riga continues to foster a sense of togetherness and community.
