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World Cup excitement stirring in Dortmund

(Reuters)
Updated: 2006-06-06 10:18

For now it is simply giant speakers and a recording tape providing the jubilant roars and soccer chants ringing out through the centre of World Cup host city Dortmund.

But excited residents of the western, industrial city know in only four days' time the noise and commotion will be real, even though Dortmund still seems curiously devoid of fans.

A general view shows a fountain in front of the 'Reinoldichurch' at the 'Alter Markt' in the city of Dortmund.[Reuters]

"I've never known the city like this. This is fantastic," said 17-year-old Stefanie Becker, pointing to a mammoth placard outside the station welcoming the eight teams playing in the city in the group stage, and blasting arrivals with stadium noise.

"I don't even like football much but I'm going to watch every game on the big screen in the centre."

Famed for its steel, its breweries and its soccer club Borussia, Dortmund is a grey German city hit by heavy job losses and a shrinking population, which will benefit from the injection of colour and celebration over the next month more than most.

"Over the years things have got more and more depressed here. We're hoping the World Cup will really give us a lift," said 52-year-old car plant worker Klaus Meier.

"Soccer is the life-blood of this region."

Waitress Claudia Kemper, 42, agreed.

"It is difficult to imagine how things will pan out in the city, particularly on a grey day like this," she said.

"But getting to see a World Cup, to serve fans and soak up the atmosphere is a once in a lifetime chance. I can't wait."

Glancing out at Dortmund's drab, narrow shopping precinct, Kemper said she was most looking forward to the Brazilian fans.

"Hopefully they can give us a little of their flair," she said.

But Brazilians can expect stiff competition from Togo in enchanting the locals, said scientist Hyacinthe Edorh, one of 66 nationals of the west African country living in Dortmund.

"I don't care how far Togo advance, I'm just thrilled they are coming," he said.