Going to the fan zone for the Reims vs Metz match sounded like an absolute blast. My friend actually went to the one in Metz and told me it was packed, with people wearing team scarves and waving banners. They set up this massive 45 square meter screen in the plaza, so everyone could see every second. Well-known radio hosts showed up to hype up the crowd, and some former Metz players hung out and took selfies with fans, which my friend thought was amazing.

Security was tight — apparently, no alcohol allowed and they checked everyone at the entrance. But people were still singing, chanting, and losing their minds whenever Metz scored. Even though there were rules about no fireworks or flares, you could feel the suspense in the air, especially as the game got intense. My friend said it’s one of the best ways to watch a match if you can’t get into the stadium, and everyone felt like part of a giant football family. The energy and excitement just made you forget you were outside in the middle of the city instead of the stadium.