Our Faker's Guide series will give you the scoop from the loudspeaker of the city’s most committed soccer (or footie) savants as they get ready to root their national team on to glory in the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The plus side for the soccer uninitiated is that, right here, you'll find all you need to sound in the know.
With our own national team staying home as per usual, Toronto comes alive with international allegiances from frenzied football supporters. In this instalment of our Faker's Guide, we spotlight Argentina, a football powerhouse who eeked out a tense win over Iran last weekend in extra time. We will now turn it over to a man who has covered the game as a professional photographer with more than twenty years of experience: Nestor Ponce. He offers us the scoop on the team's chances going forward.
If you could describe how big a football fan you are in one memory, what would it be?
I'm a big football fan, but since I became a photojournalist, I have to be neutral. I used to play football a lot back home and I'm really a fan of the sport. I still remember the first final in Buenos Aires between Argentina and Netherlands, and players from Argentina like Mario Kempes and Daniel Bertoni, as well Netherlands players like Johan Cruyff or Johan Neeskens. And we took all chances to celebrate.
How has covering the game as a photographer altered your fandom?
Since I became photojournalist, I have to control my feelings and do assignments no matter what. No feelings on assignment.
What are Argentina's actual chances this year?
Well, let me tell you, all the teams are in good positions. I believe that Argentina has good chances, but I can't give you a clue. Certainly Spain is out in the first round.
Do you have any favourite memories of games you have covered?
Yes, I still remember in Canada, the under 20 World Cup, Abgel Di Naria who ended the final with a patch covering his head. Today, he is a great player for Real Madrid.
What is the nickname of the team?
We call our national team "Albicelestes," because our flag is light blue and white.
What is the drink of choice for a true Argentinian football fan?
For concentration, they drink "mate" which is an infusion of herbal tea. We share it with a straw.
Who are the best players that I can recognize and sound like I know what I'm talking about?
Lionel Messi, Angel Di Maria, and Sergio Aguero.
And who are some of the old guys that I can make fun of?
[Retired legend] Diego Maradona. He is extremely arrogant.
Who is their arch nemesis?
Brazil, but just in football because as countries we are good friends.
What are some of the other teams you're looking out for this year?
The classic teams for every World Cup, but the Netherlands, they deserve a cup. Also, they play very well.
What's the best spot to watch an Argentinian game here in Toronto?
There are many of them along College St. and St. Clair Ave., and there is a bar on Eglinton for mostly Spanish people.
What should I be shouting during the match?
Screaming and celebrating all the games, just like every nationality.
If they win, do I sing some sort of song or just high five people?
Yes. "Vamos vamos Argentina….vamos vamos a ganar, que esta barra quilombera, no te deja, no te deja de alentar."
What should I wear?
An Argentina shirt.
How will I recognize and approach other legitimate Argentinian football fans?
We are friendly people. You'll recognize an Argentinian fan because of the flag or Argentinian shirt.
In addition, here are some of Nestor's favourite football shots from over the years:
