Football in Argentina has a legendary status around the world. Football (or soccer) is a religion here - something that can only be truly experienced by going to watch a match in Buenos Aires. No doubt you've already heard stories about the passionate football fans and unique atmosphere that is present on match days. Seeing a game for yourself is a must-do activity during your travels in Argentina. However, buying tickets is not a straightforward process. If you're thinking of seeing a game, first read this guide on how to buy football tickets in Buenos Aires.
football tickets in buenos airesGetting tickets to AFA (Argentina Football Association) League games is not easy / Image Source

How to Buy Tickets for Boca Juniors

Buying football tickets for a Boca Juniors game at the famous La Bombonera (chocolate box) stadium in La Boca is not easy. There are no ordinary tickets for games at La Bombonera. Season tickets are sold to members of the club. There are 60,000 season ticket holders and only 47,000 seats so, as you can imagine, there is high demand for a seat at each game.

There are two ways to get a seat:

1. It is possible to buy a ticket from the scalpers outside the stadium who will give you someone else's membership card. However, there is no guarantee with these tickets. Some people get into the stadium without a problem, while others don't and lose their money. 2. A safer way is to book with an established tourist agency. These tickets are more expensive but guarantee you a seat. This Boca Juniors football tour includes transfers to and from the game and a guide who will accompany you throughout.
la-bomboneraThe atmosphere in La Bombonera on match day is something quite special / Image Source

Getting Tickets to River Plate

Buying tickets to see River Plate, the country's other biggest team, is similar to a Boca Juniors game, since River Plate has also started using the membership system. However, River Plate's stadium, El Monumental, has a much higher capacity than La Bombonera, with over with 65,000 seats. The best way to go to a game at El Monumental is by booking a River Plate Football Package.

Tickets to the Primera División

Don't limit yourself to just Boca Juniors and River Plate games. The rest of Argentina's Primera División (Premier Division) is just as exciting. The other teams rounding out the big 5 in the division are Racing, Independiente and San Lorenzo. These teams attract big crowds and great atmospheres. Keep an eye out on the teams' websites to find out when tickets go on sale, or book a football package to the game of your choice.
El MonumentalEl Monumental is the home of River Plate / Image Source

International Matches

If you want to see some of South America's top league teams compete, book tickets to a Copa Libertadores game. These fixtures are easier to get seats to if you pick one of the smaller Argentine teams going up against one of the bigger teams from another country. When going to a local game in Buenos Aires, keep the following things in mind: The season runs from August to May; no away supporters are allowed at games in an effort to curb fights between rival football fans; it is best to wear the colours of the home team or neutral colours. Whatever games you decide to attend, you'll be sure to have a memorable time experiencing the passion that Argentines have for their football.

By: Nicole Eberhard, travel writer and avid explorer, with a Masters in English Literature.