Brighton & Hove Albion fans around the world have described travelling abroad to see their club play in the Europa League as a “dream they have ever prayed for”
The Seagulls will face Marseille at the Stade Velodrome at 17:45 BST.
Fans at Gatwick Airport have shared their excitement ahead of the club’s first ever European away game.
Andy Blunden and his step son Joe Gregory said seeing their beloved Albion in Europe “will be the pinnacle” of their time as Albion fans.
Mr Blunden, from Henfield, has been an Albion supporter for more than 40 years.
Going away to see Brighton play in Europe in the best thing ever. I saw them play at Gillingham, Withdean, the lot,” he said.
“I’ve loved this club from a young age, so I’m over the moon. It’s a dream come true.”
Mr Gregory, from Southwick, said he was hoping for a warm destination for the well-known club when the Europa League draw took place last month – and Marseille fitted the bill perfectly.
“We’ve seen some lows as a club, but now we’re hitting the highs,” he said.
“Marseille is a fantastic place to go. Maybe a bit hostile, but we’ll find out when we get there.”
He added: “Seeing the players walk out will be the pinnacle of my time as a fan.”
Brighton & Hove Albion has issued guidance to supporters ahead of the fixture, as fans are expected to face a hostile atmosphere in France.
Clive Procter, from Burgess Hill, said he had previously decided to travel to the first away match – no matter the destination.
“It is really exciting. I’m looking forward to a bit of sun, a few beers and some football, of course,” he said.
Meanwhile, Steve Allen, from Woodingdean, said he thought the only way he would see Albion play in Europe would be in pre-season friendlies
The Seagulls finished sixth last season, securing European football for the first time in their 122-year history.
Albion side have been drawn in thesame group with AEK Athens,Ajax Amsterdam all in group B hoping they will come out of the group as the best with maximum points as they are in good shape with a good manager.