Chelsea’s legion of Russian followers was out in power in St. Petersburg on Wednesday as supporters loved the uncommon alternative to observe their crew within the flesh because the London membership performed Zenit within the Champions League.
Followers traveled from cities far and broad throughout Russia to see the European champions in motion, with some arriving from cities reminiscent of Vladivostok within the far east – a journey considerably additional than the one Chelsea themselves had constituted of London.
Earlier than the sport, the St. Petersburg Blues supporters membership organized a particular occasion at a bar within the metropolis heart.
A horde of Blues followers massed to sink pints and luxuriate in leisure together with a particular Chelsea-themed quiz, all whereas belting out chants in honor of their heroes – with only a trace of a Russian accent.
St. Petersburg Blues member Roman Mitkevich informed RT Sport that the go to of Chelsea was lengthy awaited.
“Loads of Chelsea followers are flying in for the match from totally different Russian cities. It’s essentially the most eagerly anticipated recreation of latest years,” stated Roman.
“There are followers coming from all throughout Russia, so far as Vladivostok and Khabarovsk. Additionally from different international locations: Belarus, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan.
“It’s a disgrace that there’s solely a small variety of followers flying from England, however Covid and omicron can’t be ignored. Everybody’s well being is a very powerful factor.
“We’ll attempt to make it in order that visually and from the perspective of assist, the Chelsea crew will really feel at residence.
“We’ll attempt to make each Chelsea participant hear chants about themselves and the crew. Everybody’s welcome in Russia – from Russia with love.”
Among the many followers have been the Belarus Blues, who have been a few of the most vocal voices within the bar.
“We’re actually excited,” one member stated.
“Our assist comes from the center… It’s a implausible ambiance, plenty of supporters from Kazakhstan, from Belarus, from totally different components of Russia are collectively right here. We’ll go to the stadium collectively.”
View this publish on Instagram
Ryan was one of many few Chelsea followers to make the journey from the UK and was joined at a desk by a bunch of fellow Blues from Kazakhstan.
“I needed to get an categorical visa however I’m glad to be right here,” stated Ryan, from Edinburgh. “I’ve solely seen two different Chelsea followers [from the UK] however the assist is nice all over the place we go from the locals.”
St. Petersburg Blues organizer Roman is adamant that Chelsea are the best-supported overseas crew in Russia.
That seemed to be backed up later within the day as a number of hundred Russians on the Gazprom Enviornment supported the guests.
“Chelsea is totally the preferred membership in Russia (outdoors of Russian groups),” stated Roman.
“There are robust followings for Liverpool, Manchester United – Manchester Metropolis is turning into stronger. However Chelsea in Russia and the previous Soviet Union is the chief when it comes to the fan base, undoubtedly.
“After all the affect of Roman Abramovich is large, numerous followers started to assist Chelsea (in Russia) throughout his period. However I might maybe put it in a different way – he introduced consideration from the Russian viewers to the truth that soccer may very well be totally different, very aggressive and exquisite.”
Talking on Chelsea’s billionaire Russian proprietor, Yaroslav from Kazakhstan added: “I actually need Abramovich to be on the match as a result of it’s his crew and his nation.”
Abramovich was certainly watching on from the stands on the Gazprom Enviornment as an under-strength Chelsea and Zenit drew Three-Three after Magomed Ozdoev hit a shocking late equalizer for the hosts.
The end result meant Chelsea have been compelled to accept second spot in Group H behind Juventus, however for the Blues devoted in Russia and neighboring international locations, it was a memorable probability to assist their crew first-hand.