toby.d said:. Don't want to be a downer
I been thinking about the delta between this and other WCs.
82 was the best for face-melt games (Paolo Rossi 3-2 vs Brasil, that FRA/GER game) and possibly the last great team - the Brasil of Zico, Eder, Falcao, Socrates.
86 had demonstrably the best player by miles in Maradona, and it was a privilege to see that in live.
These tournaments and all others had special goals and moments.
Favourites include the opening Narey goal for Scotland v Brasil, the Uruguay player getting sent off in the opening minutes for foul on Strachan, England semi in 90, South Korea opening 30yd stunner vs ARG, ten man Senegal beating ARG, etc etc.
This WC has lacked the truly thrilling games, truly great player performances, the truly top, top players generally failing to live up to billing and a truly great team.
It's plus points have been the overturning of old orders - Spain v NED, last night, the emergence of old also-rans stepping up a gear - Algeria, CRC, Colombia, Chile.
The maturing of USA from novelties to serious players.
But what's made this one so enjoyable is largely about peripheral circumstance. The loc and the people involvement, the way the Internet has impacted, the TV and pub friendly schedule, the occasional bite and assault drama.
This WC has not had to rely on football for its greatness.