14
Jul
They Think It’s All Over (It is now)
That famous piece of TV commentary capped England’s World Cup win in 1966. That happened before even I was born. Just sayin’.
Spain’s win on Sunday was A Good Thing. Unless you were Dutch, of course. There is little not to love about these Spaniards/Catalans except the fear that these guys become the New Brazil, ie, Spain shirts become pret a porter fashion de rigeur for the trenderati. Possible bonus? Andres Iniesta gets to release his wines commercially.
Others have whined about this World Cup. Others have praised. Some critics complained abut South Africa without leaving their couch in another country while others (OK, journalists) complained the whole time they were actually in South Africa.
Did you know South Africa was not at all like Germany in 2006? Well, let me tell you…
Personal Highlights?
Best Game Attended
South Africa v Mexico at Soccer City, right after Siphiwe Tshabalala scored. Vuvuzela madness. I think. Working at a tournament is a very different experience than as a fan.
Or maybe Slovakia v Italy at Ellis Park for its sheer don’t-believe-I’m seeing-this factor.
Worst Game
Germany v Australia for its personal embarrassment. Then Australia v Serbia because I was writing a match report for The Guardian and my computer froze right on 75 minutes just as all hell broke loose on the pitch. As Australia were eliminated the only thing I really cared about was how long that little Acer would take to reboot.
Player of the tournament
I heart David Villa, Diego Forlán, and Brett Holman. Landon Donovan also crossed over from my personal dark side to the light.
Goal of the tournament
That I saw live? David Villa against Chile.
Personal highlight
Sardines at Nuno’s at Melville; The riot in Durban when you really knew you were at a World Cup; roadtripping with Tony Harper and Michael Church; Tony Harper’s insatiable quest for coffee; South Africans; Visiting a township outside Johannesburg where the kids demanded their photo be taken.
Lesson for 2014 (this format is borrowed from The Guardian btw)
Brazil is not South Africa is not Germany.
Relax, people.
