Football in Buenos Aires

Ok, so Brazil is more famous for football than Argentina, but having experienced both Argentinian football is a MUST. But there are a few things you should know - just so you go with your eyes open! I was there a few years ago and took in 4 games and it was one of the highlights of my trip.
So first. Most teams are based in BA. This means that on sundays there are usually 2 derby matches to see (if you are really into it!). One KO around 1000 or 1100 and one around 1600.
Ok, so I am a big fan of the game, I have been to world cups, Maracana, Camp Nou, Bernabou, Ajax Arena and as a Celtic fan consider Celtic-Rangers as one of the most intense atmospheres in the world. But the experience in BA is something different. It has a passion and a tempo that I have never experienced before (not better but differnt to Celtic-Rangers!). The heat and noise and tempo is something special - and this is mainly provided by the "Barras Brava". Each team has a Barras Bravas, they are basically rent-a-mob, organised thugs with disturbingly close ties to the clubs themselves. Some say they as pseudo-mafia. Anyway, they arrive en-mass just on kick off and march behind their home teams goal. It is a fantastic sight but DO NOT get in their way! They lead the chanting and tempo and are basically a bit mental. It has been known for them to just shoot guns into away supporters area.. I was told the season was suspended years ago because of this.
Ok, so its a bit dangerous, but generally if you stay away from these guys you will be fine (most of the normal fans hate them).
I hope I havent put anyone off, even if you are not into football a game in Buenos Airies is a unique experience. I always say, if you have the chance to see anything at its best then take it (hence I have been to Bolshoi Ballet..well I was in Moscow!). I can testify that football here is up there with the best in the world, so if you are there you should go for it. Enjoy.
Tosh