Surprising, but not exceptional
The first round elimination of (defending Champions) Germany from the underway World Cup Football is surprising, but not exceptional, as it happened four more times in the past. Brazil in 1966, France in 2002, Italy in 2010 and Spain in 2014 meet the same tragic exit. In addition, Germany’s dream of touching Brazil’s one rare success was, thus, aborted, breaking the hearts of the fanatic supporters. Highest five times Champions Brazil won the world title back to back in 1958 and 1962.
Argentina narrowly escaped elimination, while England lost to Belgium by a solitary goal in Group G in order to avoid four former world champions including Brazil on way to the final. If they can beat Colombia in the second round, there will be no strong hurdle to stop them. Belgium’s goal celebration was nothing but sign of imprudence only.
Eventual Champions West Germany in 1974 lost to East Germany in order to avoid Brazil in the quarterfinals. They did it in 1954 also, losing to Hungary by 3-8 goals.
However, seven other seeded teams succeeded in sailing into the knockout stage. The second round line-up is Uruguay versus Portugal, Spain V Russia, France V Argentina, Croatia V Denmark, Brazil V Mexico, Sweden V Switzerland, England V Colombia and Belgium V Japan. It is hard to predict which two teams will cruise into the final though many critics say, these two teams will be Brazil and England to thrill the world.
Asia, Africa and North America had 13 representatives. Of them, Mexico and Japan qualified, while Iran and Nigeria thrilled the world of football with Morocco, South Korea and Australia displaying signs of grand comeback.
Abdullah Rahi
Dhaka
