Afurada toasts FC Porto’s title as boats head for the Ribeira | OneFootball

Afurada, the fishing quarter by the Douro’s mouth, is in party mood with sardines and wine as FC Porto celebrate their 31st title, even though the river celebration is heading straight for the Ribeira. According to O Jogo, local devotees plan to send two or three boats upriver to join the blue procession.

The community mixes joy with regret that the parade will not pass their streets, after a four-year wait was finally ended. The Dragões da Afurada association, which turned 16 yesterday, sees the moment as a release after recent tension and a chance to renew tradition.

President Vítor Rola says Afurada will be in the Ribeira, and that he would welcome a visit from Villas-Boas, recalling it as customary under Pinto da Costa. He adds that a river stop in Afurada had been suggested, with families and children ready to watch, but it was not possible.

João da Foz hopes future title celebrations could route by Afurada, with its own festa boats folded into the cortege. He praises the club’s creative plan this year, while insisting the perfect party would include their harbour.

On a terrace with beers and good company, Pedro Tavares reflects that Porto have dominated for decades and credits the president after recent changes. He did not expect success so soon and is aiming to take his grandfather’s boat to the river with around 50 people to eat, drink and dance, many from fishing families, flags flying along the quay.

Source: O Jogo