It seems you've grown quite the following in Brazil! Hahaha The World Cup is a huge deal here and even as I have strong feelings against football culture in general, this event every four years holds a special place in my heart.
As Luiz said, Brazil's performance this year was not only pitiful, we still had to endure Neymar's disgraceful antics and the fact that he's seen as an idol by a significant share of youths. Even Vini Jr. taints his name, endorsing a betting platform.
We also feared that Sunday, for there are few things worse than watching Argentina being champions of anything. As they turned the game around against Egypt and later against England, my brother and I exchanged disheartened messages, asking why God was punishing us so!
I am sure you're son will forever treasure this World Cup as I forever treasure '94 and you forever treasure '90.
Finally, it's good to see some players saying things we can support and endorse. There is and there will always be hope in the next generation!
Beautiful, Kevin. I wasn't rooting for Spain but now I'm happy they won so you and your son (and many other parents and children, I hope) could live this moment. And I was moved while learning of Spanish male players' respect and support for Spanish women footballers. Next year the women's football World Cup will be in Brazil, and we are definitely taking our son to see a game at MaracanĂ£.
Brilliant article! I understand the appeal of figures like Cantona, the antihero who seems invincible and so different from everyone else. It is really difficult to find heroes that kids can look up to. Here in Brazil, we have a serious problem named Neymar. For some years now, he has become an undisputed idol for many youngsters, even though his behavior keeps getting worse. He cheated on his wife while she was pregnant, supported a far-right president, tried to evade fines and taxes, and uses his platform to promote gambling. I'm so sad that my teenage nephews consider him an idol. Just like some in the media and many influencers, they believed Neymar could lead Brazil to the title. That couldn't be further from the truth. Once a genius, he is no longer someone who should be admired, either on or off the pitch.
love!! So special for you & B.
It seems you've grown quite the following in Brazil! Hahaha The World Cup is a huge deal here and even as I have strong feelings against football culture in general, this event every four years holds a special place in my heart.
As Luiz said, Brazil's performance this year was not only pitiful, we still had to endure Neymar's disgraceful antics and the fact that he's seen as an idol by a significant share of youths. Even Vini Jr. taints his name, endorsing a betting platform.
We also feared that Sunday, for there are few things worse than watching Argentina being champions of anything. As they turned the game around against Egypt and later against England, my brother and I exchanged disheartened messages, asking why God was punishing us so!
I am sure you're son will forever treasure this World Cup as I forever treasure '94 and you forever treasure '90.
Finally, it's good to see some players saying things we can support and endorse. There is and there will always be hope in the next generation!
Beautiful, Kevin. I wasn't rooting for Spain but now I'm happy they won so you and your son (and many other parents and children, I hope) could live this moment. And I was moved while learning of Spanish male players' respect and support for Spanish women footballers. Next year the women's football World Cup will be in Brazil, and we are definitely taking our son to see a game at MaracanĂ£.
Beautifully written. These are the special moments in life. Thanks for sharing.
Brilliant article! I understand the appeal of figures like Cantona, the antihero who seems invincible and so different from everyone else. It is really difficult to find heroes that kids can look up to. Here in Brazil, we have a serious problem named Neymar. For some years now, he has become an undisputed idol for many youngsters, even though his behavior keeps getting worse. He cheated on his wife while she was pregnant, supported a far-right president, tried to evade fines and taxes, and uses his platform to promote gambling. I'm so sad that my teenage nephews consider him an idol. Just like some in the media and many influencers, they believed Neymar could lead Brazil to the title. That couldn't be further from the truth. Once a genius, he is no longer someone who should be admired, either on or off the pitch.
Great post. Got the waterworks going early this morning.