The Day Before and the Day of- Part II

On Sunday I was tired, and in no mood to go to a bar. Instead I watched the game at my great-aunt’s apartment. This was the first football match she had ever watched, and she was confused as to why it was so boring.

“These are the two best teams in the world?” She kept asking. Sadly, yes. I hate to admit this, but there were periods during the first half when I fell asleep.

Sometimes in the final, the pressure becomes too great and the game cannot live up to it. Sometimes, the day of is outshined by its predecessor.

Extra-time was slightly more entertaining, and thank God Spain finished it then. Nobody wants to see a Final end in penalties.

So, Spain were crowned champions and, despite not being the most entertaining, they persevered. The quality of their players and coaches make them worthy of their place in history

I must congratulate ESPN and ABC on their coverage. It was exemplary. All the panelists, with the exception of one, no need to mention names (Alexi Lalas), were entertaining and acute in their analysis, and Martin Tyler and co., are some of the best commentators in the game.

“El Pulpo Paul” was eight for eight in correct predictions. There are questions that I would like to ask him too: Did Michael Jackson touch children inappropriately? (It’s an easy one, just to start him off). Will Barack Obama grow an excessively large afro? And will England win the World Cup in my lifetime? (Get that one wrong, octopus, and despite my horrendous allergy to fish and my general fondness for you, I will eat you.)

Spanish Captain and World Cup Golden Glove winner, Iker Casillas

I had a lump in my throat when I saw Iker Casillas, the Spanish captain and goalkeeper, crying after the victory. Every child has dreamed of playing in and winning a World Cup Final and I am no exception. Don’t tell me you never lifted that imaginary World Cup in front of the mirror: the pride swelling up in your mind’s eye more golden than any wedding band and brighter than any fireworks. For every million of us who dreamt about it, he is the one who actually got to live it.

The days when I still believed that I may be able to lift the Jules Renoit have gone. But, just seeing three lions on the red or white shirt of the man who lifts it will be enough to warm my heart on even the coldest day.

Lastly, I would like to thank the team at CourtsidePost.com for hosting me over the last few weeks, and to everybody who has read the blog. I really appreciate it, thank you.