It was a trip of a lifetime for Sashidaran Nair (main image), who spent nine days in Qatar, soaking in the FIFA World Cup.
In that time, the KL Kopites president watched seven matches, including Saudi Arabia’s stunning 2-1 victory over Argentina.
“That was my second match of the World Cup,” said Sashidaran, 45, whose first game was the Netherlands against Senegal.
“That was supposed to be the opening game of the World Cup, but the organisers brought forward the Qatar-Ecuador game instead.
“I enjoyed the Saudi Arabia-Argentina game the most, as it had the best atmosphere. It was also good to see an Asian team upset the former world champion.”
Sashidaran, president of KL Kopites, an official fan club of Liverpool in Malaysia, said everything was well-planned.
He said fans with the Hayya card – a form of personalised document for those attending the tournament – could use public transportation for free.
“It was not difficult to travel from Point A to Point B. We had the option of paid taxis or free public transportation – bus and trains.
“That made getting around a breeze. At the stadium, they arranged for welcome packs for fans to drum up the atmosphere,” said the businessman, who managed to snap photographs with fans of all 32 teams.
“I went for the group stage instead of the knockout rounds to meet the fans. I took pictures with them at the stadium, fan zones and around the country.”

“They are staying in Qatar and sometimes play the kompang at certain events. It was great to meet them. That made the trip even more memorable,” said the die-hard Brazilian fan, who predicts the South Americans would win the trophy for a record-extending sixth time.
“Many fans I met said it was the most well-organised World Cup. The weather was awesome, the people friendly, and there was no problem finding beer or other alcoholic drinks.
“I do not know why so many made a fuss about that (no beer at the stands). Yes, we could not get beer inside the stadium, but we are coming to experience a World Cup, not to drink ourselves silly.”
Asked what his top tip for anyone wishing to go to the next World Cup, Sashidaran said it was to purchase tickets from official websites.
“I bought my tickets from FIFA and had no issues getting in. It was also cheaper than the ‘second-hand tickets’ on sale.
“I waited in the online queue for 14 hours, but it was worth it,” he added.