The English Premier League is known for its passionate fanbase and electric atmospheres in its stadiums. While the noise levels can vary depending on the teams, matchups, and moments within a match, here are some of the English stadiums considered most daunting to away teams due to their crowds' raucous reputations.
Anfield is famous for its "You'll Never Walk Alone" anthem and the intense support of Liverpool fans. The stadium's proximity of the fans to the pitch and the famous Kop Stand create a unique and loud atmosphere. Although there will be no Champions League nights on Merseyside this season, with the Reds being strongly fancied at 9/1 in the English Premier League betting odds, there are likely to be many more memorable days to come in 2023/24.
With a seating capacity of over 74,000, Old Trafford can generate tremendous noise, especially during high-stakes matches against rival teams. The heady days of huge Champions League nights under Alex Ferguson may now be a distant memory, but things are improving at United lately so the atmosphere at the stadium is ramping up.
The passionate Geordie fans at St James' Park can create a deafening atmosphere. Famous as one of the most intimidating places for teams to come, with the crowd being the epitome of the 12th man. Newcastle is a one-club city, meaning that the whole of the population is football mad. Tyne-Wear derbies against local rivals Sunderland are particularly raucous, but unfortunately, we haven't witnessed one in recent years.
Everton's Goodison Park has a tight and compact design that allows the noise to reverberate across the stands, leading to intense matchday atmospheres. There hasn't been a whole lot for the Toffees' fans to shout about in recent seasons, but last year's final-day survival was greeted with massive celebrations reminiscent of when the good times were rolling at the club.
Selhurst Park's proximity of the fans to the pitch and the passionate support of the Eagles' fans can create a loud and intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams. Formally shared with the now-defunct Wimbledon team, Selhurst is a must-visit for every supporter who wants to experience a match up close and to experience what a football cauldron sounds like in the just over 25,000 seater stadium.
Turf Moor's traditional setting and passionate local support can create an intense atmosphere, particularly when facing strong opponents. That will be the case again in 2023/24 after Vincent Kompany led the Clarets back to the Premier League for the first time of asking last season. With the likes of Man City, Arsenal and Man Utd coming to town in the season ahead, the near 22,000 capacity at Turf Moor will be rocking once again.
Atmospheres in stadiums can vary greatly depending on a range of factors, including the team's performance, the importance of the match, and the interactions between fans and players. More often than not, the smaller, tighter stadiums create the loudest atmosphere and give fans the chance to experience that match in a closer way.
Taking my son to his first football match was one of the best experiences I've had as a father so far. I've written this article for Alex to read when he gets older.
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My daughter's first ever football match - Orlando City v Atlanta United, August 2019. Written for Izzy to read when she gets old enough. Vamos Orlando
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