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.
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!!!!