And that’s why they call it “football.”
Posted May 19, 2010 by james in World Cup Blog | 1 Comments
With twenty-three days to go until the World Cup of soccer kicks off in South Africa, its time to start talking about events leading up to the tournament. Already two of the game’s biggest stars will miss the excitement with ankle injuries. England’s David Beckham was the first to fall a few weeks ago. Then last week, Germany’s Michael Ballack suffered the same fate.
Despite the fact that both these players are considered elder statesmen in their respective country’s programs, it doesn’t diminish the loss of experience and leadership that both England and Germany will lose. Beckham has been asked to stay with the English team as an advisor and mentor, which is a smart move. I doubt if he would have added much to the Brit’s onfield chances, as he is prone to injuries and would surely have received a rough ride.
Ballack, on the other hand, is a tough customer. A highly skilled, passionate leader. I remember the European championship game against Spain in 2008. Bleeding from a cut to his eye after a headbutt, Ballack was ordered off the field for repairs. He was back on the pitch a few minutes later, right in the thick of things. Once again, the blood started flowing, and he was ordered to the sidelines. This time he returned to finish the game, aggressively leading by example as the Germans tried desperately to find the tying goal that never came. This was true grit, and it will be sorely missed in South Africa.
So, that said, who is going to win the Jules Rimet trophy as the champions of the world. Ladbrokes of London pick European champion Spain by a slight margin over Brazil. England, Argentina, Germany, Holland and Italy finish the top seven picks in that order. But who knows?
So many intangible factors come into play during this month long ordeal. Injuries to key player have already been mentioned. The weather, team chemistry, fan support, questionable officiating, and just plain “Lady Luck” can change the balance of any game at any time.
My pick to go all the way is the Netherlands. So many times a bridesmaid, but never a bride. So many individual superstars, but rarely team cohesion. This time, I just have a feeling that they are ready. The skill level is certainly there, and if all the elements align in their favour. watch out for the Orangemen!
Who do you like and why?
Cheers, James
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