"There is no other place in the entire world that will make you feel as though you are at the heart of things. Because whichever nightclub you go to, or play, or film, or whichever concert you see, or restaurant you eat at, life will always have been going on elsewhere in your absence, as it always does; but when I am at a Football match, I feel that the rest of the world has stopped and is gathered outside the gates, waiting to hear the final score". (N.Hornby, 1992)

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Seria A + La Liga + Jogo Bonito = BRAZIL

As I sat and was enjoying the way the Brazilians were knocking the ball about, it struck me why I love watching them so much. Only one player in their starting line up (Robinho, Manchester City) plays outside of either Spain or Italy. Its not like I don’t enjoy the EPL, but I much prefer the game of chess that Roma, Barca, Inter, Milan, and Real provide, to name a few. Brazil plays a combined brand of Football seen in both La Liga and Serie A with a touch of ‘Jogo Bonito’ known only in the Brazilian game. A highly tactical game of precise positioning in possession deep on the field, and when not in control of the ball. In the final third of the ground is where the ‘Selecao’ will never change and is the one aspect of their game that makes them completely unique. Their unpredictability and skill in and around the penalty area is what has won them five World Cups. This is why they are still my favourites to win it again. During his reign at the helm, Dunga has brought a highly tactical game and complimented it with Brazilian flair. In comparison, Brazilian teams of the past concentrated more on the latter. Before, the old adage was let them score two cos Brazil will score three! They have arguably the strongest centre back pairing at the tournament in Lucio and Roma’s own Juan (I was very excited to see him play last night. I let out a few Roma chants which he didn’t hear but I got a few stares from the locals around me in the stands). Although North Korea were gallant, Brazil never hit top gear. Like what we have already seen from the likes of Argentina and Germany already in this tournament, Brazil will be there come the latter stages and if my early tip rings true be standing on the podium at Soccer City on June 11.

As I have done at the previous three matches I’ve attended, I didn’t sit in the seat prescribed on my match ticket. I dragged Ron and Aaron with me this time as we took up a position on the bottom level. I love South Africa!

Off to Emperors Casino tonight and Pilensburg National Park tomorrow.
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1 comment:

  1. SalinaJune 16, 2010 at 8:43 PM

    yup.. I agree they certainly have flair and class.. although I did think Korea deserve some respect as they put up a great battle with some moments of brilliance and were able to score one goal and celebrated as if they one the final! lol

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