June has been a month of emotional highs and lows, sleepless nights and zombie walking to work in the mornings. But when you wait for something for four whole years, all of the above seems trivial.
I was glad to be home this year. With the folks and Baba’s brand new 60 inch television set that had been purchased specifically for what is known as the greatest show in the world – the FIFA World Cup. And it doesn’t get bigger than this year, being hosted at one of the most football crazy nations, Brazil.
The opening ceremony and anthem were underwhelming, but over a month, we have seen the most surprising football. Giants being knocked out and smaller countries with younger teams paving the way to glory. And what a journey it has been.
We stayed up nights praying that matches not spill to extra time, grieved over the early departure of La Furia Roja, cursed at the Oranje’s diving, gaped open mouthedly at Guillermo Ochoa surreal saves and elbowing while applauding the new players from Colombia, Mexico and Costa Rica who stunned with their skill.
Not to forget the first of the semi-finals where the host nation was brutally defeated by the Nationalmannschaft who appeared to be in the top of form and confidence and while I was celebrating, I couldn’t help but feel sorry for Brazil – the national team, and the thousands of people whose stark belief was that the Samba boys would lift the cup in Maracanã.
It’s been a fantastic World Cup – one of upsets and revelations, and whether Team Messi or Deutschland win the title on Sunday – I’ve had my fill of football.
Now looking forward to Russia 2018 – and maybe even save enough to watch the beautiful game in person!
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| GER-BRA |