A football fan who spent €11,700 of his house deposit savings to take his grandfather to the World Cup has received an unexpected surprise after being gifted the money back.
Jacob Allmendinger used the savings he had been putting aside for a future home to give his grandad, Geoff Golliker, the chance to experience the World Cup tournament together in the United States and Mexico.
The pair have shared a lifelong love of football, with Geoff taking Jacob to Hull City matches since he was a young boy. Jacob said the trip was his way of returning the favour.
Together, they travelled to New York and Atlanta to watch England's World Cup matches against Panama and DR Congo, before witnessing England's dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium.
After their story captured attention online, Jacob and Geoff said they were regularly recognised by fans while travelling around the tournament.
Their story also caught the attention of US-based crypto casino Metawin, which contacted Jacob through social media with an unusual offer.
The company initially promised to reimburse the €11,700 if England defeated Panama by more than two goals in the World Cup tournament. Although England fell short of that target with a 2-0 victory, Metawin later pledged to honour the offer if England beat DR Congo by any score.
Following England's 2-1 win, the company kept its word.
Jacob, from North Ferriby in East Yorkshire, said he could hardly believe the money had actually been transferred.
"I was amazed, it was an incredible gesture really. They had contacted me on social media about the story and tweeted about paying the money back if we beat Panama by more than two goals."
"When we only won 2-0 they said they would still pay £10,000 if we won against DR Congo by any score. I didn’t quite believe it, to be honest, until I looked at my bank and it was there. I was just in shock."
Jacob said he has no immediate plans to spend the money and intends to put it back into savings.
"I think I’ll save the money until I get back home. I’ll put it in a savings account for now and see what happens after the next couple of months."
