Antes de Que Te Vayas Al Descenso

The song 'Antes de Que Te Vayas Al Descenso' is a chant commonly heard in the stands of Argentine football matches, particularly those involving the Boca Juniors fans. The lyrics are a direct taunt aimed at their arch-rivals, River Plate, who are colloquially known as 'Gallinas' (chickens). The song's title translates to 'Before You Go Down to the B Division,' referencing the fear or anticipation of River Plate being relegated from the top tier of Argentine football, which is a significant humiliation for any club, especially one with a storied history like River Plate.

The lyrics express a mock sentiment of how life would not be the same without River Plate in the same division, suggesting that the rivalry is an integral part of the Boca Juniors fan experience. The phrase 'Vamo' a quemar el gallinero' which means 'Let's burn the chicken coop,' is a metaphor for defeating and humiliating River Plate in their own stadium. The song encapsulates the intense rivalry and the joy Boca Juniors fans derive from their opponent's misfortunes. It's a celebration of their dominance and a reminder of the other team's failures.

Cultural context is key to understanding the song's meaning. In Argentine football, the rivalry between Boca Juniors and River Plate, known as the Superclásico, is one of the most intense in the world. The song is less about the actual act of relegation and more about the emotional impact of the rivalry. It's a chant that unites Boca Juniors fans in their shared schadenfreude and pride, and it's a reflection of how deeply football rivalries can permeate the culture and identity of supporters.