‘Cardiff smashed it...’ Fans as capital city earns a ringing
CARDIFF once again proved itself on the world stage after hosting a vibrant, enthralling and almost trouble-free Champions League final.
Millions of eyes were on the Welsh capital as Real Madrid thumped Italian side Juventus 4-1 at the National Stadium of Wales.
Up to 170,000 football fans descended on the Welsh capital for the fantastic footballing spectacle which more than lived up to expectations.
Reaction to the event has been overwhelmingly positive, with some of the sport’s top names giving Cardiff a ringing endorsement.
During the coverage on BT Sport, presenter Gary Lineker said: “We’ve got to say a few words about Cardiff – they’ve put on a great show.”
Former England and Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard replied: “Unbelievable show. We’ve been down the Bay. It’s been great. It’s been a credit to everyone in Cardiff.”
And fellow former England star Rio Ferdinand added: “They’ve obviously had security issues but they’ve handled it fantastically.”
Liverpool and Wales legend Ian Rush, who delivered the Champions league trophy to the floating pitch, tweeted to his 162,000 followers: “#Cardiff is looking good the atmosphere here is electric!”
John Gibbons, of Liverpool FC fan website and podcasts The Anfield Wrap, also tweeted a thumping endorsement of the capital: “Cardiff smashing it again I see. Just hold every final there. Of every sport.”
Even though the Welsh capital wasn’t short of a few critics when it was announced as the Champions League final venue two years ago, it has since been praised as the host city.
Even Gareth Bale, who became only the sixth player ever to win the Champions League trophy in his home city, had time to praise the final’s organisation.
Bale, along with his jubilant teammates, celebrated with their families on the pitch after the game.
Fans then spilled out onto the streets of Cardiff to take in their club’s brilliant win and an end to a memorable campaign.
Speaking on the pitch just moments after winning, 27-year-old Bale said: “The city have done an immaculate job in hosting such a great event.
“At one point it looked like I wouldn’t make it to the final. I’ve worked tirelessly and this is the reward you get.”
Security around the event was very much heightened after recent terrorist attacks in both London and Manchester.
But fans in the city centre, and in the Champions League festival in Cardiff Bay, created a fantastic atmosphere.
The legends game alone, played on a floating football pitch, drew thousands of fans to the Bay on Friday.
The likes of Ryan Giggs, Luis Figo, Cafu and Robert Pires showed they still have plenty of skills in their locker.
And later that evening, world-renowned DJ Steve Aoki turned Roald Dahl Plass into a makeshift nightclub.
Social media users also took to Twitter to thank Cardiff for organising such a lively weekend.
Posting on Twitter, Adam Coyle said: “Cardiff was superb yesterday. Organised perfectly. Atmosphere brilliant. Well done @cardiffcouncil @UEFA.”
Samuel Ellis Rees added: “Big shout out to the #UEFAfinal organisers in #Cardiff and security – police and stewards alike – for keeping the city safe, moving and happy!”
Huw Thomas, leader of Cardiff Council, said the atmosphere was “world-beating”.
He said: “I would like to congratulate Real Madrid for their victory in the Uefa Champions League final on Saturday.
“What a game and how fantastic for everyone in Cardiff and Wales to see Gareth Bale lift the European Cup in his home city.
“I would like to thank everyone that has worked so hard to make this event a success.
“The planning and effort to put on something this big and run it so smoothly while keeping everyone safe from harm often goes unrecognised.
“All the partners involved, and of course our wonderful city, have done the Uefa Champions League proud and shown the globe how great a place Cardiff and Wales is.”
Mr Thomas added: “Holding such a prestigious event as this will have a long-lasting legacy for the Welsh capital.
“This was the biggest sporting event in the world in 2017.
“From the champions festival to the wonderful atmosphere created in the city centre and the stadium – it all goes to show – Cardiff offers something which is distinctive and truly unique.”
The Champions League was broadcast in more than 200 countries across the globe.
And South Wales Police said there was only a small amount of criminal behaviour.
The force confirmed that three people were arrested over ticket touting, and there was also a small amount of trouble between rival fans near Cardiff Castle.