The 2014 FIFA World Cup is one week old. I’m not going to pretend to give you any type of prediction or analysis, as I’m embarrassingly ignorant about those things. I can’t even tell you with any ounce of certainty what constitutes offsides or the specific reasons why the yellow card is drawn. But what I do know, and what I love most about futbol, is that (1.) what goes on off the field is equally exciting as to what is happening on the field; (2.) Spanish-language coverage is far more exciting and way more accurate than in English; and (3.) dynasties do not exist.
Here’s a recap of my favorite things this week:
1. Production issues
Jennifer Lopez said she would not perform at said opening.
Then, Jennifer Lopez said she would perform at said opening.
At the opening, Jennifer Lopez’s platform refused to perform.
2. Peace be with you
The pope had a message for everyone:
I wish everyone a wonderful World Cup, played in a spirit of true fraternity.
— Pope Francis (@Pontifex) June 12, 2014
But especially for Portugal:
3. Lost in translation
Brazil won the opening game 3-1 against Croatia. And, that one goal against them was accidentally made by someone on their own team. But, someone at Channel 10 thought it was a close game:
Close Call for Brazil! Local 10 is your World Cup station! Download the app – search WPLG http://t.co/cskXmEueYK pic.twitter.com/J0yHx7Earb
— WPLG Local 10 News (@WPLGLocal10) June 13, 2014
4. The weakest link
Spain. That’s all.
5. This week’s winner is…
Without a doubt, Shakira’s team is the winner of the first week of the FIFA 2014 World Cup. Their fancy footwork before and after every goal is something that you can’t help but love.
Mari de Armas 