Day Twenty-one: One last game in an amazing month of fútbol.*
Today’s final wasn’t nearly as thrilling as yesterday’s spoilers game. Although, I’m sure Spain fans would disagree. While Uruguay did not manage  a podium finish, taking 4th against Germany— the amazing Diego Forlán walked away with World Cup’s equivalency of the MVP: The Golden Ball Award. And if you watched him play, you’d understand why this award comes as no surprise. Gracias, La Celeste for an amazing month of fútbol!
I always root for the underdog, so I wanted the Oranje to win, but oh, well. 🙂
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I didn’t really have a preference in the final—at least not when the match began. However, after watching NED play, I’m glad Spain won. The Dutch were outplayed technically—and their poor sportsmanship was appalling for play at the World Cup level. They were lucky to only have received one red card. From where I sit, deJong’s ridiculously dangerous high kick deserved his immediate expulsion, and Robben’s behavior was embarrassing at best. Both were lucky to be allowed to remain on the pitch. So, while I went into the game with no real care, I’m glad the right team won the game. ~W
I agree entirely with your comment about the last two matches. Germany Uruguay was much more exciting.
Roll on next year when it’s Rugby’s turn to be centre stage
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I would have preferred Germany in the final instead of The Netherlands. (and after today’s game, even more so) But selfishly, it was wonderful to watch them play against my beloved Uruguay. Technically, Germany and Uruguay are well matched and have the same passion for the game and historically the game for 3rd place is exciting! I had my heart in my mouth on several occasions. As for Rugby, I can’t say I’ve ever seen a match. But I’m not an American football or baseball fan either. Give me hockey any day! 😀 ~W
Agreed re: the Netherlands performance today. Unfortunately, I was all Tour de Franced Saturday and missed the third-place game. In American sports, that “consolation game” is considered a sort of non-event. Not so at the World Cup, I guess.
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Well, with World Cup, it’s a big deal because of the awards potential. So, it’s a last chance for the contenders. I don’t think it’s a game anyone wants to play—but because both sides have less to lose than if they were in the final, it tends to be a high-scoring game. Play loosens up and you see real magic. Which, with soccer can be rare. For me, it was my two picks playing so, it was wonderful. Although, I would have preferred a different out-come. It was beautifully contested. About the only mar, was the constant booing of Suarez every time he had possession of the ball. It showed a real lack of understanding on the parts of the spectators. ~W
They are saying Brazil is going to walk all over everyone and take the next World’s Cup. I know they are the host nation and all… but 4 years is a long time… how can “they” be so sure?
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Well, they can’t. Except, it’s Brazil. They’re usually odds on favorites. I’m thinking we should actually try to go to the next World Cup. 😀 ~W