Perhaps I am a bit of a purist. I shared a similar sentiment about the expanded format pre-world cup…in the end, I missed the urgency and importance of group stage matches but fell in love with Cabo Verde. I’m also hopeful that Trinidad and Tobago will qualify again in the future (I feel like 2006 might’ve been our only appearance without the expansion). I guess we can’t have it all.
I don’t think the game’s gone because of the hydration breaks, but it’s definitely different! Something that made football unique was the lack of timeouts/breaks each half, putting more onus on the players to adapt. As long as it doesn’t become the norm I think I’ll be okay.
The World Cup has succeeded in spite of FIFA’s corruption and the general shitshow here in the US. Living in Dallas, I’ve truly loved seeing people from all over the world get to experience how welcoming and friendly Texans can be. Way different than the Texas you see on tv or in the news whenever our politicians are doing something stupid.
Perhaps I am a bit of a purist. I shared a similar sentiment about the expanded format pre-world cup…in the end, I missed the urgency and importance of group stage matches but fell in love with Cabo Verde. I’m also hopeful that Trinidad and Tobago will qualify again in the future (I feel like 2006 might’ve been our only appearance without the expansion). I guess we can’t have it all.
I don’t think the game’s gone because of the hydration breaks, but it’s definitely different! Something that made football unique was the lack of timeouts/breaks each half, putting more onus on the players to adapt. As long as it doesn’t become the norm I think I’ll be okay.
All fair points. Admittedly, the Trump/Balogun saga and the officiating in Egypt-Argentina game have poisoned the well à bit.
I'm guessing you wrote this before the Balogun "intervention"!
Hand of God 2.0
The World Cup has succeeded in spite of FIFA’s corruption and the general shitshow here in the US. Living in Dallas, I’ve truly loved seeing people from all over the world get to experience how welcoming and friendly Texans can be. Way different than the Texas you see on tv or in the news whenever our politicians are doing something stupid.
Exactly right. It’s refreshing to see our places through visitors eyes.
I believe your exact word when I asked how much you paid was “nosey”