Kick Off and Play!
A little late, but a worthy congrats to the Chelsea team for claiming their title after the cup being at Old Trafford for 3 years. Whilst I can’t seem oblivious to the fact that the PL this season has been the most exciting in years and considering the competition is getting tougher with clubs spending big. United came close but fell short of reclaiming a record 4th consecutive title. I must say it hasn’t gone to well at the Lancashire club with the turmoil off the field, injuries and the departures of key players. But nothing must be taken away from what Chelsea has achieved – a historic double as they cleaned up the silverware with the premiership and the FA cup. They have been a largely the dominant team with a strength in bench and resilience that they have shown despite the loss in Europe against Inter.
Inter however, I must say get full plaudits for sweeping the treble with the Serie A, Copa Italia and most importantly their second Champions league after 4 decades. Jose Mourinho has led a team that resembles the gritty coach’s strong and tough as nails character. Where the neutrals observe that Barca plays the beautiful game on and off the field Jose has personified the art of defensive football and he really seems to be the special one. Soon as Inter won Jose declared his profound love for winning a 3rd Champions League with another club. In came Real Madrid and the special one has now joined to overtake a project that will raise a few concerns at their bitter rivals Barcelona. Can’t wait for the next season!!
South Africa has gone a notch up with the biggest sporting spectacle that starts June 11th. The 3 lions must be hoping this is where they will be redeemed and it will be only so when they clutch that coveted trophy! I must admit England don’t even have a chance. Traditionally the English qualify from the group stages but get their heels kicked at the knockout stages. Their single point of pocus will be mercurial striker Wayne Rooney, if he hits top form and has got enough rest they will have a good chance. The bookies have put them in favorites by giving a short odd and to be frank this might be their best year to win some major honors.
The teams that are likely to reach the summit will be Brazil and Spain. I think these teams have been consistent and boast an array of talent that could do a lot more than their rivals. One would argue so does many other teams but I think the key is playing as a unit and that’s where other falter these 2 teams based on current form will be my favorites. I really hope Diego Maradona was trying a gimmick when he announced to the world that he will run in the streets of Buenos Aires naked if they were to win the cup. I’m pretty sure that Maradona knows better that he really wouldn’t have to. From a personal point I would just love to see Argentina win it not from the view that I would get to see a bellied Diego run naked but the fact that Argentina really should be up there winning major honors and it’s been a while too.
The pretenders will be former champions Italy, France, Germany and Portugal. Beyond them I can only see a good outing from the Serbs. Well we all have our favorites and I sure hope as much that it will be a cracking event. I will be tracking those stars in the reckoning. These young players would have the ultimate platform in showcasing their talent and skill and it will only be fitting that they might as well get picked up sooner or later by the big clubs. Keep an eye for those transfers this summer as we will witness some big spending ones.
So here we are now, this is it! – Kick OFF on June 11th!! Press PLAY >
Darel Luiz
