Excitement In The Air
Adam El-Jazouli, England
We have teamed up with MiXR, the app that helps you find the best pubs and bars to watch football, to showcase the diversity of fan and pub culture throughout England and Scotland during the 2024 Euros. Eight passionate fans have documented the tournament atmosphere at MiXR pubs across the UK while cheering on their national team to show there is a place for any fan, whatever you’re for.
Adam El-Jazouli believes football is meant to be shared with others and watched England take on Serbia at the Royal Park Hotel in Leeds.
My name is Adam and I am 25 years old. I was born in Doncaster to Moroccan parents, however, I grew up in Colwyn Bay, North Wales as we moved there when I was four. Now, I live in Leeds and work in the ticket office at Leeds United. I am also studying to be an electrician.
To me, football is a form of expression. That expression can come from going to a stadium to cheer on a team, watching with friends at the pub, or playing football yourself.
I have played football ever since I can remember. I would kick a ball against a wall for hours or have a kick about with my Dad and little brothers. Nowadays, I usually play five-a-side and 7-a-side. Sometimes I play in the kitchen with my housemates to the detriment of almost every glass and mug in sight.
Supporting England
Ever since I can remember, I have supported England. My Dad is half-English on his mother’s side, so he grew up supporting England and watching English football. He grew to love Liverpool, and his love for these teams has been passed on to me.
I remember when he bought me my first England top - the Umbro 2006 home kit with ‘OWEN 10’ on the back. I remember that day vividly and being so excited to wear it while watching the games. My Dad then took me to watch England vs Andorra in 2006 where I was able to wear my new top and support in person. I recall being overwhelmed by not just the whole occasion, or how big the ground was, but also by seeing Steven Gerrard, my favourite player.
I would always watch the games with my family because football is something to be shared with others. This sentiment has come with me into adulthood, where I now watch matches with my friends. Sometimes we watch at home, but for the big games, we like to watch at our local pub where the energy is always buzzing.
I remember when we beat Germany in the 2020 Euros. People were dancing and celebrating everywhere and you could feel the excitement in the air. This highlight was then followed by a low point, not just around our loss in the final to Italy, but the words and reactions that followed the game. I remember not feeling proud to support England for the first time in my life.
Wearing White
I am not very superstitious, however, there is one thing I keep constant for big games. I have to wear something white when watching England. Whenever I have not worn something white, we have lost, so I am not taking the risk anymore!
I look forward to watching England at the 2024 Euros with my friends at one of our houses, or at a pub in town. Regardless of where we watch, it will be a good time!
I love how united everyone is when England are playing. Cheering on and supporting the team together creates a fantastic atmosphere - especially when they are winning!
