Portugal.
That's who I've drawn in our seemingly inevitable office World Cup sweepstakes: Portugal. Nothing against the Portuguese or Portugal itself, but it's not exactly a team that fills me with a sense of proud certainty when it comes to winning the handsome top prize. But it doesn't really bother me — the World Cup is about to begin, and sweepstakes are just part of the fun.
England, that proud nation I call "home," will play their first match tomorrow. I'll be watching it. Or rather, I'll be listening to it while I work. I know, I know: How awful to have to work on a Saturday. In fact: How awful to have to work on the first Saturday of the World Cup and during England's first game.
And I don't even really like football.
I say like, but that's a little harsh. I don't necessarily mind football, it's just that there seem to be so many, so much more interesting things I could be doing. That's not to belittle those who love the sport — I can see the appeal, it's just that it's never really been a high priority for me. And yet, here I am, moaning about missing the first match. Why do I care?
And the only honest answer I can come up with is: I have no idea. Is it the fact that our lads are second favourite to win? No: I've been let down so many times — we have been let down so many times — that part of me doesn't really believe that we'll win. Is it because I'm fiercely proud of my country or heritage? Wrong again. Despite everything that's going on, I still love my country, and I'm still proud that we can represent ourselves at this level in a global tournament, but I don't really believe we're special beyond all other nations. We don't have any more right to win the cup just because we invented the sport.
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Article comments
1 - Steve
I found your article bemusing, if only because I ONLY watch football (soccer) during the World Cup every four years (though I did watch Euro 2004, but I doubt I'll do that again). It's fine in small doses but I couldn't imagine watching it on a regular basis throughout the year. As you say, there are plenty other things one can be getting on with!!
2 - Christopher Rose
You must have really mixed feelings going in to tomorrow's England-Portugal game!
3 - Daniel Woolstencroft
Of course, I'd like England to win! But there's always the consolation that, if England do go out, I've got a chance of winning some cash!
That said: COME ON ENGLAND!
4 - Christopher Rose
England! EngLAND!! ENGland!!! ENGLAND!!!!