Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Heroes Discussion => Topic started by: Clampy on May 20, 2026, 06:10:55 AM

Title: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Clampy on May 20, 2026, 06:10:55 AM
A nod to the thread in Off Topic.

I'm sat in BHX. We're watching the game in Alicante.

Feel free to move or close if this is a Europa thread too many.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Meanwood Villa on May 20, 2026, 06:33:26 AM
Beyoğlu, Istanbul
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: sid1964 on May 20, 2026, 07:00:16 AM
I am in the same district as Meanwood Villa
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: nordenvillain on May 20, 2026, 07:23:55 AM
In Ibis hotel near SAW airport, have breakfast, then taxi back to SAW airport to get onto one of the shuttle buses into Taksim Square. Let the festivities and (hopefully) joy begin.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Three Spires Villa on May 20, 2026, 07:33:03 AM
In bed, my arthritic knee, was painful last night. I will stumble out later and the Villa lads will make me feel better.

My lads in Istanbul and he has sent photos, looks ace, so have fun everyone
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Dick Edwards on May 20, 2026, 07:44:14 AM
I'm in Jersey on a holiday, carelessly booked last year without consideration. I've found a sports bar a mile away in which to watch the game tonight, and my memories of this holiday will ultimately be determined by the result later.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Demitri_C on May 20, 2026, 07:53:20 AM
In london euston- waiting for my train to head  up to Birmingham. I cannot  wait.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: KingstandingVilla on May 20, 2026, 08:03:51 AM
Sutton Coldfield. Going to the gym, then a chilled day.. Might have a beer and curry tonight and watch a game on the box
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: TaxDodger on May 20, 2026, 08:19:28 AM
Having breakfast in the hotel gritti and pera in Taksim. Disappointing spread to be honest. Not a single egg.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Monty on May 20, 2026, 08:33:50 AM
Beyoğlu is the best, there's a top breakfast place just up the road from the Kılıç Ali Paşa Cami, if you want to avoid TD's eggless fate there.

Going to the Didovich bakery and I wonder, do the good people of Cannaregio know what a momentous day it is? Do they care? I'm unconvinced. The apathetic feckers.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Dave on May 20, 2026, 08:37:30 AM
Sutton Coldfield. Going to the gym, then a chilled day.. Might have a beer and curry tonight and watch a game on the box

Ah, first leg of the Dutch league play-offs? I hear you brother.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Olneythelonely on May 20, 2026, 08:50:45 AM
Still in bed near Taksim Sq. going to get some breakfast, visit the fan park, do something cultural then get right on it.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 20, 2026, 08:52:59 AM
Getting right on it is doing something cultural.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Nev on May 20, 2026, 08:58:12 AM
Thunder rolling around, sat with a small beer in a posh hotel foyer sheltering from the rain. My Sabbath tshirt is making the concierge rather nervous.

Can hear the odd announcement from the fan park, unintelligible but enthusiastic.

There are lots of cats in this city, one is sitting at a table in here. He don't give 2 fucks.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on May 20, 2026, 09:02:55 AM
Waiting for my lad to get out of bed, it's his 20th Birthday today. Going up to Villa Park with him and his mate to go in the store around lunchtime. Then into town for food and a few drinks around Broad St before Snobs later. Can't wait ...
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: eamonn on May 20, 2026, 09:11:43 AM
Where the feck is SAW airport? Didn't realise their music production was so popular un the late 80s that they built an airport for their own roster of artists going on tour.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Tony Daleys Shorts on May 20, 2026, 09:15:24 AM
No work today, or the for the rest of the week. Not got much planned,  just a few jobs round the house, to keep me busy.

Off to Hickory’s Kingswinford for a bite to eat later, and to watch the game in the sports bar with 20 or so friends and family (all Villa bar one black sheep Baggie), ages 7 through to 80, going to relish every second of the build up.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Witton Warrior on May 20, 2026, 09:15:38 AM
Beddgelert. Itinerary for today is Harlech castle, then the beach.
Back to the cabin for curry and then try to get online to follow the match with the lad (who is so nervous he didn't sleep last night bless him)
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Dave on May 20, 2026, 09:31:44 AM
Working from the kitchen table. Taking the boy into town for dinner and watching the game from a pub still TBC, but current favourite - not watched any football in there since the day of the 2019 play-off final.

So that feels like an omen not to be passed up.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Hookeysmith on May 20, 2026, 09:35:50 AM
A short story of hope through despair

In 82 had tickets for coach and final in Rotterdam. Sunday evening strolling home from local pub to find blue flashing lights (When the Police actually turned up) at my moms house where i lived only to find house had been burgled. Me and my old mans tickets for coach and final and spending money - all gone >:(
The pain has stayed with me for 40+ years

Watched the game on neighbours TV and the tears of joy from winning were mixed with sadness as i was not there. I like a few in the 90's, thought a long period of sustained success was to follow and there would be other opportunities........ Thanks to Ellis they never came

A while a go a great opportunity arose to visit Rome ( a place we have always wanted to go) but it was the day after the potential Europa league final. I edged my bets and thought "Vila will let us down like the FA cup semi, Conference league etc"  What a fool i am  :-[

My missus has tried to console me saying that last time i did not go  - we won. Last time we played a German team them in red us in white we won.

God i hope she is right. Will probably not even have a drink tonight as have a 7am flight in morning....but if we do

Then Rome may be a bit of a blur

UTV
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 20, 2026, 09:38:51 AM
Looking out of the window thinking I must leave the room at some stage. Or maybe not.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Behind Bluenose Lines on May 20, 2026, 09:50:01 AM
At home with plenty of housework to do to keep me busy!  Then going to my sister's to watch the game later on. I'm wavering between sheer nervousness and quiet confidence in us doing the business tonight.

Hope we all end up having a great time later!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: KingstandingVilla on May 20, 2026, 09:57:28 AM
Looking out of the window thinking I must leave the room at some stage. Or maybe not.

How's the nerves Dave ? Today seems to be going so slow.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: LeeB on May 20, 2026, 10:02:58 AM
No work today, or the for the rest of the week. Not got much planned,  just a few jobs round the house, to keep me busy.

Off to Hickory’s Kingswinford for a bite to eat later, and to watch the game in the sports bar with 20 or so friends and family (all Villa bar one black sheep Baggie), ages 7 through to 80, going to relish every second of the build up.

I've got a Hickory's about 200 yards from my house, didn't think to ask them.

I'm heading into town later, but not telling as I haven't got a table booked and don't want you shower nicking any spots.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on May 20, 2026, 10:03:36 AM
A short story of hope through despair

In 82 had tickets for coach and final in Rotterdam. Sunday evening strolling home from local pub to find blue flashing lights (When the Police actually turned up) at my moms house where i lived only to find house had been burgled. Me and my old mans tickets for coach and final and spending money - all gone >:(
The pain has stayed with me for 40+ years

Watched the game on neighbours TV and the tears of joy from winning were mixed with sadness as i was not there. I like a few in the 90's, thought a long period of sustained success was to follow and there would be other opportunities........ Thanks to Ellis they never came

A while a go a great opportunity arose to visit Rome ( a place we have always wanted to go) but it was the day after the potential Europa league final. I edged my bets and thought "Vila will let us down like the FA cup semi, Conference league etc"  What a fool i am  :-[

My missus has tried to console me saying that last time i did not go  - we won. Last time we played a German team them in red us in white we won.

God i hope she is right. Will probably not even have a drink tonight as have a 7am flight in morning....but if we do

Then Rome may be a bit of a blur

UTV
Blimey, what a sad story. Horrendous. Have a great time in Rome, my favourite city. UTV mate
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Richard on May 20, 2026, 10:08:17 AM
In office in South Yorkshire, the day is dragging and I dont finish until 6. Then off up to Huddersfield for a gig. Will be constantly checking the score and then watching a re run of the game when I get home - if we've won!!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Brend'Watkins on May 20, 2026, 10:08:17 AM
Stansted Airport waiting at Gate 7.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Pete3206 on May 20, 2026, 10:12:03 AM
At home.

Story for another time, but I couldn't go to Istanbul despite having the opportunity of a ticket through the Uefa ballot. Last Friday's game was bittersweet with the highs of beating Liverpool to secure our CL place mixed in with, at times, overwhelming disappointment of not being there today. The fans videos and vlogs have cheered me up however, and I hope you all have the best time tonight, have sore throats around midnight and the biggest hangover of your lives in the morning. UTV.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: charleeco7 on May 20, 2026, 10:18:19 AM
Rock n Rolla bar Istanbul 300 lira a pint. Result.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: PaulWinch again on May 20, 2026, 10:30:42 AM
Nervously working from home.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 20, 2026, 10:31:36 AM
Rock n Rolla bar Istanbul 300 lira a pint. Result.

Any sign of Guy Ritchie?
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: DB on May 20, 2026, 10:45:19 AM
Nervously working from home.

Same.
Is it too early for a beer?
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Nev on May 20, 2026, 10:46:37 AM
Dublin Irish Bar. The only Irish thing is the name. Drying up but it's chilly.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: 144 Hard Boiled Eggs on May 20, 2026, 10:47:25 AM
Just waking up after having a nap after breakfast. Getting in at 4am was very unprofessional of me. Mr Emery would not be impressed. A great night though!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Beard82 on May 20, 2026, 11:06:11 AM
Just about to head off up for tonight.  Very nervous and excited
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: aldridgeboy on May 20, 2026, 11:11:21 AM
Just about to leave Sultanamet for Taksim.
Nursing a hangover. 3 am finish was a silly idea !
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: rooboy316 on May 20, 2026, 11:50:57 AM
Sleeping on the couch in Melbourne, so as not to wake the missus up with the 4:45am alarm.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Stu on May 20, 2026, 11:53:16 AM
Working from home and really not getting much done at all, nerves fully kicking in now.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Eckybloke on May 20, 2026, 11:58:12 AM
Marietta in Pennsylvania. I will be leaving site to drive to the airport in Philly about 3 local time and it’s a two hour drive-ish. I’m going to stop at a restaurant about 45 minutes away for something to eat and try to catch the end of the game (or at least read the match thread)
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: rob_bridge on May 20, 2026, 12:06:24 PM
In the office working. Least distraction of other people.

8 hours till kick off and 10 hours until a new entry into Villa history all being well.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: eye digress on May 20, 2026, 12:09:18 PM
At work in Paris. Need to leave the office latest at 7:30pm to get home and soak up the coverage. Can't decide whether inviting a non-Villa supporting mate over to watch the game will be fun or a distraction.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: mike on May 20, 2026, 12:09:32 PM
I'm in purgatory.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: rob_bridge on May 20, 2026, 12:11:47 PM
At work in Paris. Need to leave the office latest at 7:30pm to get home and soak up the coverage. Can't decide whether inviting a non-Villa supporting mate over to watch the game will be fun or a distraction.

Who do they support? A French club?
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: KevinGage on May 20, 2026, 12:15:20 PM
Bayrampaşa after a quiet one in Taksim last night
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Toronto Villa on May 20, 2026, 12:22:31 PM
At home just outside of Toronto. A bag of nerves.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 20, 2026, 12:31:01 PM
Just finished the work I needed to do. Settling down for an afternoon of worrying. Might head to the pub earlier than planned to get my eye in.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Hillbilly on May 20, 2026, 12:31:32 PM
Setting the alarm for 4.55am and going to bed for a restless night.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Smithy on May 20, 2026, 12:33:16 PM
Working from home, and just been reminded that my daughter is in a musical/play at school tonight, for which we booked tickets 6 weeks ago, and which I completely forgot about.  It finishes at 8pm.  Even if everything runs to time, and we have zero traffic on the way home, I will miss at least the first 20 minutes. 

I am distraught.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 20, 2026, 12:33:33 PM
Dublin Irish Bar. The only Irish thing is the name. Drying up but it's chilly.

CD was over there last year, and he reckoned the U2 Istanbul Irish Pub was way more authentic.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: FrankyH on May 20, 2026, 12:43:53 PM
Top of the Intercontinental, I believe the toilets are nicer than the Dubliner pub , brother and mate were in there last night and said if was a grim site !
(https://i.ibb.co/60z1mR1H/IMG-2088.jpg) (https://ibb.co/60z1mR1H)
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 20, 2026, 12:44:43 PM
At home trying to get some work done. I've taken the very rare decision to watch the game in my mate's Irish bar tonight (he has my favourite beer on draught which is a great result in itself). Last time I did that was the Play Off Final that saw us promoted. That game I had my eldest daughter with me but now she's a Norwegian Lion in Oslo, so maintaining the lucky formula I've got my son, youngest daughter with her boyfriend who doesn't know it yet but he'll be a Villa fan by the end of the night.

I'll be digging out my lucky 1975 Villa away white top, what a beautiful shirt, it only comes out for special games. Oh and the flag will also be making an appearance, against a first since the play-offs. My kids know how much the Villa mean to me and I couldn't wish for more than watching the team I love surrounded my the people I love. The missus will stay at home. Bless her, she never, ever complains about my obsession with the Villa and truth be told, even though she has no interest in football, if she was to come out tonight she's probably start a fight.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: cdbearsfan on May 20, 2026, 12:47:15 PM
Dublin Irish Bar. The only Irish thing is the name. Drying up but it's chilly.

CD was over there last year, and he reckoned the U2 Istanbul Irish Pub was way more authentic.

I think the last "Irish" bar I was in was in Munich. On the menu they had a cocktail called a "Black and Tan". Feel like they hadn't even done the bare minimum of research.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Stu on May 20, 2026, 12:52:58 PM
4 hours to go until I can knock off, got a meeting at 2 for an hour and I’m honestly not in the right frame of mind to be patient and professional with people at all.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: rooboy316 on May 20, 2026, 12:56:37 PM
Setting the alarm for 4.55am and going to bed for a restless night.

They’re showing it on Gem so no need to stuff around trying to find rivers. Coverage starts at 4.30.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: amfy on May 20, 2026, 01:03:47 PM
Still in Morecambe as we speak but about to head down to Brum where I’ll be watching in the Institute with CDBF amongst others and hopefully meeting up with Jane & Joe C before and after the match!

Feeling very jealous of everyone in Istanbul. Have fun & bring it home!

Nerves kicking in now!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: sid1964 on May 20, 2026, 01:10:22 PM
Listening to the rain lashing down outside the hotel in Istanbul
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: amfy on May 20, 2026, 01:14:14 PM
4 hours to go until I can knock off, got a meeting at 2 for an hour and I’m honestly not in the right frame of mind to be patient and professional with people at all.

I’ve got a Child in Need Meeting at the school I work at in Preston at 1pm tomorrow. Thursday isn’t even one of my working days but they ‘need’ me at this meeting. I have told them I will attend in sunglasses and stinking of booze! They laughed - they don’t think I am serious. I am deadly serious.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: N'ZMAV on May 20, 2026, 01:31:41 PM
the nerves are giving me a stomach ache.
I am WFH today, but I have a very very clear afternoon.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Stu on May 20, 2026, 01:32:00 PM
4 hours to go until I can knock off, got a meeting at 2 for an hour and I’m honestly not in the right frame of mind to be patient and professional with people at all.

I’ve got a Child in Need Meeting at the school I work at in Preston at 1pm tomorrow. Thursday isn’t even one of my working days but they ‘need’ me at this meeting. I have told them I will attend in sunglasses and stinking of booze! They laughed - they don’t think I am serious. I am deadly serious.

I’m sorry I can’t make it later! I just cannot hear anything in very noisy pub environments anymore and feel isolated.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: DB on May 20, 2026, 01:35:39 PM
Dublin Irish Bar. The only Irish thing is the name. Drying up but it's chilly.

CD was over there last year, and he reckoned the U2 Istanbul Irish Pub was way more authentic.

I think the last "Irish" bar I was in was in Munich. On the menu they had a cocktail called a "Black and Tan". Feel like they hadn't even done the bare minimum of research.


If it ain’t got bicycles on the ceiling, it’s not authentic.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: SamTheMouse on May 20, 2026, 01:36:25 PM
At home. Totally unable to concentrate so I've binned off work and am sitting here doomscrolling. Might go for a run in a bit, work off some of the nervous energy.

It's ridiculous, really. I'm excited but there's no way this is going to be anything other than torture until it's all over.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: ROBBO on May 20, 2026, 01:36:51 PM
Going to bed, set the alarm, might take a little sleep helper.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on May 20, 2026, 01:44:19 PM
Glasgow working.  Going to watch in a bar later then hide or not as the case maybe.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 20, 2026, 01:45:26 PM
Back in Hotel having done Blue Mosque , Haji Sophia and Grand Bazaar.
Mrs bought family Pashminas, “ guys if you need to make peace when home a simple easy pack away present “
The weather is very Birmingham.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Duncan Shaw on May 20, 2026, 01:51:33 PM
At the office in Weybridge, Surrey.  Leaving at 3 to go home, put the new lucky shirt on and head up to meet my son and a few of his Villa supporting mates in a pub in Clapham to watch the game there.  Not getting much done, loving all the clips from Istanbul!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: cheadlevilla on May 20, 2026, 01:51:41 PM
On the Redneck Riviera in North Florida…. On a big trip for my 60th which was yesterday .
I’m desperately hoping that the sports bar I’ve picked out is showing the game 
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Nev on May 20, 2026, 01:57:11 PM
Dublin Irish Bar. The only Irish thing is the name. Drying up but it's chilly.

CD was over there last year, and he reckoned the U2 Istanbul Irish Pub was way more authentic.

Had one on there yesterday, small but good.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: The Man With A Stick on May 20, 2026, 02:03:41 PM
Working from home, counting down the minutes, but my head is spinning and I can't get anything done.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: martin o`who?? on May 20, 2026, 02:04:23 PM
Going the boozer soon - very soon.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Duncan Shaw on May 20, 2026, 02:09:50 PM
On the Redneck Riviera in North Florida…. On a big trip for my 60th which was yesterday .
I’m desperately hoping that the sports bar I’ve picked out is showing the game 
Happy 60th!!!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: cdbearsfan on May 20, 2026, 02:10:18 PM
Belated Happy Birthday cheadlevilla.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: eye digress on May 20, 2026, 02:11:50 PM
At work in Paris. Need to leave the office latest at 7:30pm to get home and soak up the coverage. Can't decide whether inviting a non-Villa supporting mate over to watch the game will be fun or a distraction.

Who do they support? A French club?
Yes - took him to the PSG game, he cheered for them!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: LukeJames on May 20, 2026, 02:13:13 PM
Coventry. Im a flash bastard.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 20, 2026, 02:14:05 PM
At work in Paris. Need to leave the office latest at 7:30pm to get home and soak up the coverage. Can't decide whether inviting a non-Villa supporting mate over to watch the game will be fun or a distraction.

Who do they support? A French club?
Yes - took him to the PSG game, he cheered for them!

Invite him over, just don't let him in.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: rob_bridge on May 20, 2026, 02:15:35 PM
A little over an hour in the office in Warwick.

Drive back and pick up my lad from post school football. He will looking resplendent in full Emi Martinez yellow kit. Last year, he managed to covert one of his mates to Villa from Man Utd even though said mate's Dad is from Bury.  Asked his mate's Dad what he thought, he didn't mind - anyone at all, anyone except Liverpool.

Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: jwarry on May 20, 2026, 02:53:10 PM
Getting ready to walk up to my local boozer in Ozanköy village, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, for a curry and a few beers to settle me down.  As they say around here 
Allah'ın izniyle bu gece kazanacağız!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: algy on May 20, 2026, 02:56:28 PM
Happy birthday for yesterday, cheadlevilla.

Going to watch it at home, in Wrexham.  Or I might not, I become a complete bag of nerves whenever I watch literally any football match on the telly.  No idea why as I'm beyond placid watching football in person.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: itbrvilla on May 20, 2026, 03:02:49 PM
Just arrived at Waterloo. Hoping to grab a space in Feed the Yak...
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: amfy on May 20, 2026, 03:10:45 PM
4 hours to go until I can knock off, got a meeting at 2 for an hour and I’m honestly not in the right frame of mind to be patient and professional with people at all.

I’ve got a Child in Need Meeting at the school I work at in Preston at 1pm tomorrow. Thursday isn’t even one of my working days but they ‘need’ me at this meeting. I have told them I will attend in sunglasses and stinking of booze! They laughed - they don’t think I am serious. I am deadly serious.

I’m sorry I can’t make it later! I just cannot hear anything in very noisy pub environments anymore and feel isolated.

Let's book a few days in Madrid next year like NOW! What could go wrong? 🤣
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 20, 2026, 03:12:16 PM
South Brum with my cat. Which is where i'll be during the game as well.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: cdbearsfan on May 20, 2026, 03:14:55 PM
4 hours to go until I can knock off, got a meeting at 2 for an hour and I’m honestly not in the right frame of mind to be patient and professional with people at all.

I’ve got a Child in Need Meeting at the school I work at in Preston at 1pm tomorrow. Thursday isn’t even one of my working days but they ‘need’ me at this meeting. I have told them I will attend in sunglasses and stinking of booze! They laughed - they don’t think I am serious. I am deadly serious.

I’m sorry I can’t make it later! I just cannot hear anything in very noisy pub environments anymore and feel isolated.

Let's book a few days in Madrid next year like NOW! What could go wrong? 🤣

AMFY 😡😡😡
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on May 20, 2026, 03:16:02 PM
Shirley Train Station, en route to that there town.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: dekko on May 20, 2026, 03:29:31 PM
Tofino, Vancouver Island, British Colombia, Canada.

Desperately trying to find somewhere that might show it, not having much luck.  Might have to stream it or use a vpn to listen to radio coverage fml
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Flamingo Lane on May 20, 2026, 03:41:08 PM
Burgos, Spain. Currently having a siesta. I shall be watching in a bar just around the corner from where I'm staying, recommended to me by the owner of the property I'm staying in. I've been to the bar a couple of times but I'm not filled with confidence by it. My Spanish is reasonably OK, but the owner resolutely refuses to speak a single word of English to me, save for the single word 'Liverpool". His customer base seems a bit more genial, largely elderly locals who tend to wander in at around 10pm local time.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 20, 2026, 03:42:00 PM
Tofino, Vancouver Island, British Colombia, Canada.

Desperately trying to find somewhere that might show it, not having much luck.  Might have to stream it or use a vpn to listen to radio coverage fml

Have you tried The Bear Bierhaus on 120 First Street The MAQ Hotel Tofino, BC V0R 2Z0?
It claims to be a sports bar. https://www.thebearbierhaus.com/
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 20, 2026, 03:45:13 PM
Lying down and drying out. It's raining again.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: dekko on May 20, 2026, 03:46:41 PM
I was there last night, they won't be open until hours after kickoff (which is midday local time).

Same story with most of the places round here. They did point me towards one of the hotel bars that opens for lunch so I'll try them.

Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: stubbsyandy on May 20, 2026, 03:46:54 PM
In my garden in Wales…shaking with nerves!!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 20, 2026, 03:56:02 PM
I was there last night, they won't be open until hours after kickoff (which is midday local time).

Same story with most of the places round here. They did point me towards one of the hotel bars that opens for lunch so I'll try them.



The Driftwood Cafe have a TV screen, may be worth giving them a call. They appear to be open now and only close at 5pm your time.

Maq, Browns Social and Shed are the other places I've seen listed where they show sport.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Stu on May 20, 2026, 04:00:03 PM
4 hours to go until I can knock off, got a meeting at 2 for an hour and I’m honestly not in the right frame of mind to be patient and professional with people at all.

I’ve got a Child in Need Meeting at the school I work at in Preston at 1pm tomorrow. Thursday isn’t even one of my working days but they ‘need’ me at this meeting. I have told them I will attend in sunglasses and stinking of booze! They laughed - they don’t think I am serious. I am deadly serious.

I’m sorry I can’t make it later! I just cannot hear anything in very noisy pub environments anymore and feel isolated.

Let's book a few days in Madrid next year like NOW! What could go wrong? 🤣

Take it up with my carer please!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: tom jennings III on May 20, 2026, 04:01:45 PM
We'll be at the Box Park in Shoreditch mate if you change your mind. UTV
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: cdbearsfan on May 20, 2026, 04:07:11 PM
On me way up town top ranking.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: AndyB6 on May 20, 2026, 04:31:13 PM
Just about to get train to Snow Hill. Brewing up in town and heading to Snobs to watch the game!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on May 20, 2026, 04:47:19 PM
On Broad St, getting busy with Villa..🍺
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: puppyfeat on May 20, 2026, 04:47:43 PM
At home in Kentish Town with a bad case of PMT - pre-match tension. Off to watch it in a pub at Old Street in a bit.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Villan For Life on May 20, 2026, 04:49:17 PM
I’m heading out soon, hopefully the Hogs Head in Wolverhampton will have the game on and they have some decent beer on.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Witton Warrior on May 20, 2026, 04:50:24 PM
Just spent 45 minutes sweating to get back online up a Welsh mountain. Bumped into another Villan on Harlech beach!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Neil Hawkes on May 20, 2026, 04:53:24 PM
Going down the Hamlet at 21:00.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Godfrey Brian on May 20, 2026, 04:57:48 PM
Preparing for our big family Villa party!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: eye digress on May 20, 2026, 05:17:59 PM
At work in Paris. Need to leave the office latest at 7:30pm to get home and soak up the coverage. Can't decide whether inviting a non-Villa supporting mate over to watch the game will be fun or a distraction.

Who do they support? A French club?
Yes - took him to the PSG game, he cheered for them!

Invite him over, just don't let him in.
Toying with that idea.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: KingstandingVilla on May 20, 2026, 05:19:39 PM
Tofino, Vancouver Island, British Colombia, Canada.

Desperately trying to find somewhere that might show it, not having much luck.  Might have to stream it or use a vpn to listen to radio coverage fml

I.

.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: German James on May 20, 2026, 05:31:45 PM
Still at home. I was going to watch from behind the sofa, but I don't think I could cope and I'd probably send Mrs GJ mad.

So we're about to go to a local bar with a big tele. If any pesky Freiburg fans are there, I'll... I'll... Well, I'll be very surprised, to be honest.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 20, 2026, 05:33:56 PM
The sun's out. Briefly.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: TaxDodger on May 20, 2026, 05:38:58 PM
I wish the fan park would play freed from desire a bit louder
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: eamonn on May 20, 2026, 05:50:17 PM
On the way up to Shoreditch BoxPark. Will meet up with two lads I recruited to the Villa cause over the years, younger brother and pal from Buenos Aires.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Louzie0 on May 20, 2026, 05:56:04 PM
In the garding, waiting for 6 pm which I have decided is the yardarm.
The sun has helpfully disappeared behind some big black clouds ( over Bill’s mother’s) so I’ll just have to guess whether it’s over…or not…

I’m just chuntering, here, wondering whether to watch the pre match stuff on Villa TV.

(Of course I will!)

Hope everyone in Istanbul sings out loud and clear! UTV!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: gage against the machine on May 20, 2026, 06:01:50 PM
Portobello, Edinburgh having a couple to settle the nerves. Partner has disappeared to the cinema for the evening as apparently I stress her out too much when Villa are on…  Good decision I’d say as tonight I may have to be scraped off the fucking ceiling.
Watching with my daughter who’s been doing her best to drum up interest at her school with reasonable success -  the SJM effect!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on May 20, 2026, 06:07:13 PM
Well we can bury the myth that Villa never drink in town...Just saying.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on May 20, 2026, 06:09:05 PM
Barman on Broad St says the council have informed them of a road closure tomorrow from 4pm...parade planned to Villa Park..fingers crossed
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: rob_bridge on May 20, 2026, 06:13:28 PM
Sat at home - doing some tidy up from work tasks I should have done earlier. \

I am off for a walk soon as no way can I manage 2 hours in front of TNT.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: astonvilla82 on May 20, 2026, 06:16:45 PM
Just been on the phone to the brother(Villa lad)and said town it's full of the vile , sure he lying, he off to the Utilita Arena and it's sold out not cheap though at 40 pounds each
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: WarszaVillan on May 20, 2026, 06:21:46 PM
Picking up supplies on my way home. Couple of friends coming over to watch the game. I know I'm not allowed to say this, but we're gonna win.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: trinityoap on May 20, 2026, 06:23:35 PM
Like all true socceristas I am celebrating Arsenal's amazing triumph.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 20, 2026, 06:23:42 PM
In the ground. Absolutely no problems getting in but it's a bastard of a climb back. In the posh seats it's easily 100-1 Villa.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: trinityoap on May 20, 2026, 06:26:31 PM
Sounds as if you are mixing with proper county types Dave. Best wishes pal.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Stu on May 20, 2026, 06:39:19 PM
Picking up supplies on my way home. Couple of friends coming over to watch the game. I know I'm not allowed to say this, but we're gonna win.

Please don’t do this
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: HK Villan on May 20, 2026, 06:41:22 PM
Barcelona, in front of our TV… bricking it.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Somniloquism on May 20, 2026, 06:46:03 PM
Barman on Broad St says the council have informed them of a road closure tomorrow from 4pm...parade planned to Villa Park..fingers crossed

Will be planning to working in the office if we win tonight as it is top end of Broad Street.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: olaftab on May 20, 2026, 06:58:22 PM
On the pot in the stadium removing any doubt of shorting myself during the game.🤷🏽‍♂️
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 20, 2026, 06:59:45 PM
On the pot in the stadium removing any doubt of shorting myself during the game.🤷🏽‍♂️

On the throne, my Lord.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 20, 2026, 07:00:04 PM
On the pot in the stadium removing any doubt of shorting myself during the game.🤷🏽‍♂️

Pot! Yes! No wonder my fucking nerves are shredded. I'm off outside.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 20, 2026, 07:02:22 PM
I was 50/50 on travelling over but my uncle couldn't go, and I didn't expects this many tickets to come up for sale. I've been fortunate enough to have tickets for every final since 1982, but will watch* this one with my Dad, as I did in '82. We may not get many more opportunities to do so together.

*When I say watch, I mean he'll be in the kitchen with no telly or radio on, and me popping in to give him score updates. Nothing to do with his age, he's always been too stressed to watch big Villa games, even back in '82.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: brontebilly on May 20, 2026, 07:05:33 PM
I was 50/50 on travelling over but my uncle couldn't go, and I didn't expects this many tickets to come up for sale. I've been fortunate enough to have tickets for every final since 1982, but will watch* this one with my Dad, as I did in '82. We may not get many more opportunities to do so together.

*When I say watch, I mean he'll be in the kitchen with no telly or radio on, and me popping in to give him score updates. Nothing to do with his age, he's always been too stressed to watch big Villa games, even back in '82.

Enjoy mate, we will get it done.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: rob_bridge on May 20, 2026, 07:09:49 PM
I was 50/50 on travelling over but my uncle couldn't go, and I didn't expects this many tickets to come up for sale. I've been fortunate enough to have tickets for every final since 1982, but will watch* this one with my Dad, as I did in '82. We may not get many more opportunities to do so together.

*When I say watch, I mean he'll be in the kitchen with no telly or radio on, and me popping in to give him score updates. Nothing to do with his age, he's always been too stressed to watch big Villa games, even back in '82.

I shall be watching it with my 7 year old son (born the day before we beat Albion in Play Off SFs) as I watched with my now departed Dad (January gone) all those years ago.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Cliftonville Villlain on May 20, 2026, 07:13:19 PM
The Celt bar in Los Alcazares. Spain. Villa starting to gather. Hugely confident but so nervous.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 20, 2026, 07:23:35 PM
I was 50/50 on travelling over but my uncle couldn't go, and I didn't expects this many tickets to come up for sale. I've been fortunate enough to have tickets for every final since 1982, but will watch* this one with my Dad, as I did in '82. We may not get many more opportunities to do so together.

*When I say watch, I mean he'll be in the kitchen with no telly or radio on, and me popping in to give him score updates. Nothing to do with his age, he's always been too stressed to watch big Villa games, even back in '82.

Enjoy mate, we will get it done.

Thanks, I'm strangely confident. He's not, and won't even listen to the buildup on Radio 5. :)
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 20, 2026, 07:23:46 PM
I shall be watching it with my 7 year old son (born the day before we beat Albion in Play Off SFs) as I watched with my now departed Dad (January gone) all those years ago.

Sorry to hear that, I'm sure you'd have loved him to be there. It's nice that your son will be old enough to remember it.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Mellin on May 20, 2026, 07:27:04 PM
Just about to get into town. It's been about five years. Where are we going?
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Dave on May 20, 2026, 07:27:47 PM
Finally moved to pub. Feels of mild anxiety turning to outright panic.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Holte Antipode on May 20, 2026, 07:28:22 PM
4:15am in Sydney NSW, heading into a 24 hr sports bar (fucking timezones!)
Feeling strangely reassured by the buildup chat on VillaTV, we can and always do things the hard way, but will pull through in the second half!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 20, 2026, 07:28:47 PM
Debating whether to eat some pizza now or wait until the game.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: SteveN on May 20, 2026, 07:36:49 PM
Just arrived at the Pembroke in Coulsdon, nerves beginning to kick in. I don’t like us being favourites, I’ve watched the Villa for far too many years to be confident
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Martyn Smith on May 20, 2026, 07:39:00 PM
Just arrived at the Pembroke in Coulsdon, nerves beginning to kick in. I don’t like us being favourites, I’ve watched the Villa for far too many years to be confident

At home the other side of Caterham Valley, feet up
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: DB on May 20, 2026, 07:48:18 PM
At home with my lad….strong cider in hand.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Chris_Jephcott on May 20, 2026, 08:21:22 PM
Stuck in a bloody hotel in Crawley, training for the new job. Come on Villa!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Garyth on May 20, 2026, 08:54:05 PM
2am in Hoi An, Vientnam.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: tony scott on May 20, 2026, 08:57:10 PM
Kiama nsw time 5:54 am
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: rob_bridge on May 20, 2026, 08:58:13 PM
At home with my lad….strong cider in hand.

I know the feeling. Sub cider for Ale
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: cheadlevilla on May 20, 2026, 09:04:31 PM

(https://i.ibb.co/S4qXQwr2/IMG-3195.jpg) (https://ibb.co/S4qXQwr2)
 In a bar in Destin Florida.     Can’t speak at the moment !!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: PaulTheVillan on May 20, 2026, 10:10:52 PM
I’m in love
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Somniloquism on May 20, 2026, 10:16:28 PM

(https://i.ibb.co/S4qXQwr2/IMG-3195.jpg) (https://ibb.co/S4qXQwr2)
 In a bar in Destin Florida.     Can’t speak at the moment !!

Do you want to know the final score?
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: cheadlevilla on May 20, 2026, 10:45:00 PM
In the best bar in Florida , bawling my eyes out.   Thanks Villa!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: The Left Side on May 21, 2026, 12:36:07 AM
New Brunswick, Canada... bawling my eyes out.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Toronto Villa on May 21, 2026, 12:37:03 AM
New Brunswick, Canada... bawling my eyes out.

Where in NB?
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: The Left Side on May 21, 2026, 12:47:32 AM
St. Stephen... across the river from Trumpland (we no longer go there).
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Clampy on May 21, 2026, 08:56:34 AM
Sipping coffee on Alicante marina.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: cdbearsfan on May 21, 2026, 03:40:03 PM
Heading back up town top ranking for the badger parade.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: paul_e on May 21, 2026, 03:50:12 PM
Centenary square, of course!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Behind Bluenose Lines on May 21, 2026, 04:29:20 PM
Centenary square, of course!
And me!  Near the tram shelter.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Dave P on May 21, 2026, 05:55:32 PM
So Monday night I flew to Paris and Tuesday flew to Istanbul via Vienna. This morning I flew from Istanbul to Ankara and then onto Madrid. I’m currently sitting in a Starbucks by the Bernabeu having a beer (yes really) overlooking the pitch. Fly back to BHX tonight.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: jwarry on May 21, 2026, 06:55:06 PM
Watched the victory parade on YT from Northern Cyprus
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Behind Bluenose Lines on May 21, 2026, 08:53:15 PM
Back home from town & cream-crackered!
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: AV82EC on May 21, 2026, 09:02:10 PM
Schipol I’ll get back eventually
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: WarszaVillan on May 21, 2026, 09:05:27 PM
Watched the parade on YouTube on a train  from  Warsaw to Berlin. Of course the Internet went to shit as soon as we crossed into Germany. Drinking some bubbles on the balcony and feeling a warm sense of contentment and fulfillment.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 21, 2026, 09:29:45 PM
Home. I'm getting too old for all this malarkey.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: aldridgeboy on May 21, 2026, 09:46:03 PM
0645 flight out of Istanbul. Which was a nightmare because they put me on standby. A very nervous hour before I managed to get on.
Home, and straight to a wedding at midday.
Home again catching up on all the media on YouTube
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Brend'Watkins on May 21, 2026, 09:47:42 PM
Home after a big drive back from Stansted airport. Watching the parade footage, it’s great.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: johnc on May 22, 2026, 05:10:51 AM
On my way to SAW. Did the xtra day in the Bul. Seemed lime a good idea at the time.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 22, 2026, 06:35:37 AM
Hotel room Istanbul, about to pack and work out how to spend the millions of Turkish lira left over.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Meanwood Villa on May 22, 2026, 07:34:55 AM
On the runway at IST. In a plane, just to be clear.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Meanwood Villa on May 22, 2026, 07:52:04 AM
Chuckling reading this thread back about everyone's nerves, knowing it turned out beautifully
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: Clampy on May 22, 2026, 08:04:36 AM
The nerves started to creep around 2-3 hours before the game for me. I was fairly relaxed until then. Found a bar which had French commentary. Oh, and Alicante is lovely.
Title: Re: Where are you right now? (Europa League Final Special)
Post by: FrankyH on May 22, 2026, 08:17:03 AM
Got back lat night around 7pm. Just parked my breakfast. Good to know my bowel movements are back on Central European time !
Impressed with the numbers at Parade looking at the videos on the news and online.
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