The beautiful game, the world’s greatest sporting event and the greatest party on earth – these are just a few phrases most sport fanatics choose to describe their chosen game. Be it the World Series, the Super Bowl, Wrestle Mania or the NBA Finals – you may hear any of the above grand-statements but few of these multi-million (American) sporting events can come close to the festival of culture that is taking place in South Africa right now – The World Cup.
On the 15th July 2010, somewhere in England, I was watching the masters of Football (Soccer to some), Brazil, playing against the North Korean team, the lowest ranked side in the FIFA World Cup. Every single football fan thought what they were about to witness was a samba style slaughter only the Brazilians could administer and there was real sympathy for the North Korean side, as well as worry for their wellbeing if they were sent home in abject humiliation.
How wrong could everyone be?
The fighting spirit shown by the team from a country which holds a membership card for George W Bush’s fan club was remarkable. The fact that they managed to bridge the gulf of talent between themselves and Brazilians through sheer hard-work, determination, heart and pride endeared this team to the football community which cast them aside as nothing more than the wiping boys of the competition.
To put it simply, from the beginning of this match, North Korean showed that for them this was far more than just a football match.
Although the Brazilians eventually won the game by two goals to one, you couldn’t help but smile and cheer when the Koreans scored their consolation goal.
For me that one match showed why football is the greatest game and sport on earth. Unlike other sports, progression in football is not based on whether you come from a privileged background, just look at the many South American superstar players. You also don’t necessarily have to have the silky skills of a South American, just look at the strength and determination shown by the USA, England and Ghana. The game requires players and teams to show great strength, agility, flair, fitness, stamina, skill and intelligence.
You don’t have to be built like a tank, ala Shaq – just look at the FIFA World Player of the Year, Lionel Messi.
It is truly a game for everyone and I for one applaud FIFA’s decision to take theWorld Cupe to the African Continent for the first time ever. Although it is disheartening to see empty seats at some games, it is equally heartening to see the different type of atmosphere Africa has to offer.
Who’s going to win the World Cup, heck I don’t know. My money is on the Brazilians but for the sake of the game, I hope a team takes it. I also hope for the progression of the game in the states, the USA reach the semi’s and they may very well do it. I’ve been saying it for years, the Americans are no longer mugs at this game. Landon D is a player I would love to see line up for my beloved Arsenal.
Just a normal everyday bloke writing about films.