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We Are Eleven

Family, Barrio, Club

Forget Boca Juniors and River Plate—we witnessed the real rivalries in Argentina and the passion that emanates for Atlético Banfield.

Forget Boca Juniors and River Plate—we witnessed the real rivalries in Argentina and the passion that emanates for Atlético Banfield, a local club in the city of Banfield. Through local perspective and their unique self-expression, Atlético Banfield has created a rabid fan base that has a very different way of expressing the love for their club. In stark contrast to the hooliganism that often mars soccer in South America, this group, known as the Banfield Mystics, express themselves through street art. In the days leading up to matches they cover all the walls of their neighborhood with art and poetry espousing their team and the pride they have for it. Some of these murals have been painted by local artists, in the honor of fans, players, and of course, the neighborhood. On this trip to Banfield, friends and families showed us how they show their support and what it means to be part of the Banfield Mystics.