GUARUJA, BRAZIL (WTAQ-WLUK) – The Packers and Eagles will make history Friday as they play in the first-ever NFL game in South America.
Taking in this historic game is a once in a lifetime opportunity for fans, like Lake LaChapelle of Green Bay and Dave Pleier of Two Rivers.
“I just saw this as a great opportunity to travel and go to a Packers game and experience something really special, so I’m very, very excited for the game,” said LaChapelle.
Pleier added, “I’m a Packers fan, but when I had the opportunity to come down, I thought, ‘Well, I’ve never been to Brazil and this would be a great chance to do that.'”
The pair arrived in Brazil Tuesday are spending the week in Guaruja.
According to Pleier, “It’s known for its beaches and miles of beaches. It’s a beautiful spot.”
Staying about two hours outside of São Paulo, LaChapelle and Pleier say they’ve run into several Packers fans, as well as Eagles fans. They can’t say enough good things about the locals, and are not concerned for their safety at all.
“One of the best parts about being here is just how kind the locals are. They’ve really embraced us. They’re very patient with us, especially when we’re ordering food. As long as you keep your head on a swivel and your phone in your pocket, you’re okay. I would say the locals are really like we are in the Midwest,” said LaChapelle.
Their take on the country is much different than that of some NFL players, who’ve questioned the league’s decision to host a game in Brazil due to safety concerns.
“I do not want to go to Brazil, and you wanna know why? I’m here to tell you why. They already told us not to leave the hotel. They told us we can’t do too much because the crime rate is crazy. I’m like, NFL, why do you want to see us somewhere where the crime rate is this high? I told my family do not come down there,” said Eagles cornerback Darius Slay.
Packers coach Matt LaFleur said the trip is strictly for business, not pleasure. “If you draw your attention elsewhere, I think you’re going to do yourself a disservice. We’re going to keep our focus on Philly. It’s a really good football team.”
And that’s exactly what LaChappelle and Pleier hope for when they take their seats in São Paulo Friday.
“Go Pack Go. For all of you at home, I’ll be screaming extra loud,” added LaChapelle.
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