How to behave like a local fan

(at Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro)

11/13/20252 min read

So, you made it to the Maracanã — the temple of football! Now it’s time to blend in and cheer like a true carioca. Follow these simple tips, and you’ll feel like part of the crowd in no time 👇

⚽ 1. Pick Your Side (and Stick With It!)

In Rio, football is serious business.
You’re either Flamengo (red & black) or Fluminense (green, red & white) — no middle ground!
Ask your guide who’s playing and wear the right colors. Just... maybe don’t mix them up 😉

🎶 2. Sing Like You Mean It

Don’t worry if you don’t know the lyrics — no one cares!
Just clap, jump, and shout “VAMO MENGO!” or “VAI FLU!” when everyone else does.
Energy matters more than pronunciation!

💃 3. Dance a Little

Yes, you can! Brazilians celebrate everything — goals, good passes, even referee mistakes (sometimes).
Shake, smile, and move with the rhythm. It’s not just football; it’s a samba with a scoreboard.

🍻 4. Respect the Ritual

Locals arrive early, grab a drink, and chat with friends before kickoff.
It’s part of the show! Just don’t bring glass bottles or big bags — the security team will stop you faster than a goalkeeper.

🗣️ 5. Learn the Magic Words
  • “Golaaaaaço!” = Amazing goal!

  • “Caraca!” = Wow!

  • “Bora, time!” = Let’s go, team!
    Say them with passion — volume is your friend here.

👏 6. Celebrate (Loudly) and Respect

When your team scores, jump, scream, hug strangers — that’s normal.
But if the other team scores, stay calm. Remember: the crowd loves emotion, not provocation.

📸 7. Take Photos, But Don’t Miss the Moment

It’s okay to snap a few pics, but don’t spend the whole match filming.
Look around — you’re inside one of the most iconic stadiums in the world!

❤️ 8. Enjoy the Vibe

The Maracanã isn’t just a stadium; it’s a living, singing, dancing piece of Rio’s soul.
Feel the chants, the drums, the fireworks, and the joy — because here, football isn’t a sport. It’s emotion.

Now you’re ready.

Grab your jersey, raise your arms, and scream with the crowd:

“Oooooo Maracanãaaaaa!”

Welcome to Rio. You’re officially one of us. 🇧🇷🔥