WORLD CUP WOES

photo credit - pixabay

So, okay, it’s only every four years.  Football takes over the media and the selected host cities, which, if you’re not a fan, may not be the exciting whirlwind of goals, wins and penalty kicks that it is for football fans. 

But for the spectators watching the games, whether on TV or live, this is serious stuff. People using holiday time and savings, who have the conviction that their team will do well or even win… 

Scotland’s story: well, basically they went home, not making it out of the group stages. Did they put up a fight? Certainly, to qualify - the stand out game with Denmark will go down in history for sure, not only winning but scoring some epic goals…. Did the Scotland fans get a bit ahead with this? I’m not sure - the team showed great capacity and gave real hope for the World Cup campaign. 

‘That’s football for you’ many say, but it is true there is no exact science to this sport even with talent, experience and playing for a top club, it cannot ensure a winning team. 

Which factors may have a role in fans being disappointed? Injuries to key players, unexpected selections, surprising results (like Cape Verde) and perhaps putting some players on a pedestal -  as if they don’t have the right to miss a penalty.

Whatever view you hold, there is no denying the enormity of this event and how it can bring people together and more, with Glasgow and Boston now twinned, due to the relationship between Scottish fans (tartan army) and Bostonians.

Unfortunately there are the distasteful sides of the cup too; outbursts relating to game results, teams constant fouling, some controversy over red cards and player scrutiny going overboard. 

Some eat, breathe and live for the ‘footy’ and it is understandable: Fans, totally elated as the score goes in their teams favour and celebrations to follow.  However only one team can win and I have a confession….

I’m behind France.  As a young lass, I lived in Paris during 1998 and will never forget the ambiance, the feelgood factor and ‘La France’ as a conversation starter. The place was buzzing and as lively as I had ever seen it. 

This world cup is impressive in so many ways, awesome stadiums, including some close ups of stars such as Brad Pitt (....and I thought ‘soccer’ was unpopular over the pond) 

Highlights for me; Scotland’s win against Haiti, Argentina’s comeback and Norway's viking ritual….but certainly the best is yet to come….

Share your experience or views.....