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An England soccer fan who spent his life savings to take his grandfather to the FIFA World Cup was surprised by a gift that restored every penny he spent.
Jacob Allmendinger, 21, used the roughly £10,000 — or about $13,300 — that he spent five years saving for a down payment on a home to take his 80-year-old grandfather, Geoff Golliker, on what he described as the trip of a lifestime to follow England through the tournament, news agency SWNS reported.
The pair traveled together to New York, Atlanta and Mexico City, attending England’s matches against Panama, DR Congo and Mexico, including England’s historic 3-2 victory over Mexico at Estadio Azteca.
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Their story quickly gained attention online.
While traveling, the two said they were recognized by fans who had read about their journey, according to SWNS.
The publicity caught the attention of U.S.-based online crypto casino Metawin — which pledged on social media to reimburse Allmendinger if England beat the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
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The proposal came after another offer to repay him if England defeated Panama by more than two goals. England fell short in that game.
After England’s 2-1 victory over DR Congo, the company followed through on its promise.
“I was amazed. It was an incredible gesture, really,” Allmendinger told SWNS.
“I didn’t quite believe it, to be honest, until I looked at my bank and it was there. I was just in shock.”
Allmendinger said he plans to save the money while deciding what to do next.
“I’ll put it in a savings account for now and see what happens after the next couple of months,” he said.
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“We could go to the European Championships. I could buy a house. Anything is possible. It’s just great to have options.”
Before the trip, Allmendinger said spending his savings was an easy decision because he knew the opportunity to travel with his grandfather would not come around again.
“I can always make money back,” he said. “I’m at the age where I can afford to miss out on a house for two or three years.”
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“But I won’t ever get to go to the World Cup with my grandad again.”
He also said, “We’re more best mates than grandad and grandson.”
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