Officials set up the Fut Fest - featuring games, street food and a giant screen beaming in all the matches - at Malecon Tajamar next to the city’s Nichupte Lagoon. The conservation area is home to thousands of wild crocodiles up to 15ft long, at least three of which have previously attacked humans.
Fan Zone Location and Dangers
To reach the fan zone, supporters have to trek half-a-mile through croc-infested mangrove. Warning signs advise folk not to step off the path in case they come face-to-face with a croc. The big screen telly is situated on the shore of the lagoon where the crocodiles like to bask.
Heavily armed police were patrolling the perimeter. According to one of several tourism websites offering reptile-viewing trips: "While these crocodiles are typically reclusive and avoid humans they are highly unpredictable wild animals. Swimming in the Nichupté Lagoon is strictly prohibited and highly dangerous due to the crocodile population."
Lack of Attendance
The big screen telly is situated on the shore of the lagoon where the crocodiles like to bask. They usually come out at dusk - when World Cup matches are being shown. When the Daily Star visited during the screening of Croatia’s 1-0 victory over Panama in England’s Group L, there were just five brave souls watching.
The site states the mangrove’s environment packed with 'natural prey' makes the lagoon an 'ideal hunting and breeding ground for wild crocodiles'. "The glassy waters allow the reptiles to swim effortlessly while the sun-baked muddy banks offer prime locations for sunbathing and regulating their cold-blooded body temperatures."
Previous Attacks
A Texas tourist was attacked by a crocodile while spearfishing in 2018, and a 12-year-old boy was dragged underwater by one five years ago. Last year, Mark 'C', 31, from Texas was attacked as he tried to photograph a crocodile. He was treated in hospital for bite marks and bruising.
Visitors are warned not to swim in the lagoon, pay attention to keep out signs, not to feed the crocs as it only makes them 'bolder', keep a safe distance and make sure dogs are on leads.
