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Football and a united world

June 20, 2018 00:00:00


It seems to me that the whole world has caught the World Cup (WC) football fever. Wherever we go these days, we see that people are talking about football. Almost all the big names have made a shaky start except for France which beat Australia 2-1 and pocketed all three points. Brazil, Argentina, and Spain have failed to register a win in their respective opening matches and managed to have a solitary point apiece, thanks to the matches that ended up in draw. Holders Germany have been the most disastrous as they lost their opening match against Mexico with the score being 1-0. So far, it is the biggest upset although the Mexicans have played power football against the four-time world champions.

This time, the sports-loving people are enjoying the WC fully thanks to the Eid holidays. Even women spectators are not far behind. Predominantly, we can see the Brazil and Argentina flags are flying high. But the spectators loyal to the two soccer powerhouses are not in a joyous mood. Hopefully, the WC excitement will grow up as the tournament progresses further. Total prize money for this WC is a staggering $400 million! Iceland and Panama have made their WC debut this time and the Icelanders already made their WC mark by holding favourites Argentina 1-1. Messi missed the all-important penalty and it cost Argentina a lot. Five-time champions Brazil is the only nation to have played in every WC. Italy and Holland are sorely missed this time as both the countries failed to qualify for the WC. I'm sure we will see more excitement and thrilling matches in this WC! Three cheers for football that has kept the world united at least for the time being.

Mohammad Sohel Hara

Banosree, Dhaka

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