Dramatic World Cup ends today

The 2006 World cup, which ends today, has produced a string of surprises with drama and unexpected twists throughout. One billion viewers are expected to tune in to the clash between France and Italy.

Most important of surprises to many Trinidadians occurred when Trinidad and Tobago’s “Soca Warriors” pulled off a surprising and valiantly fought 0-0 draw against a highly touted Swedish attack. The team lost no prestige in the eyes of fans when they suffered what is thought by many to be an unjust 2-0 loss to England. In addition to their inspiring performances but Trinidad was rated the best behaved team according to the British office of Information Builders (IBI). Team Captain Dwight Yorke was also rated among the best defensive players in the tournament.

The heavily touted Brazil team with some of the biggest names in international football such as Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Robinho and Kaka made an unexpected exit when they faced off with a questionable French team. Brazilian fans were faced with a case of deja vu as it was France who shocked the footballing superpower by beating them in the 1998 final. Their mediocre form from the beginning of this year’s tournament continued into what became their final game against an inspired French defence. The team fields a predominantly black team as 14 of the 20 players are of African descent.

German fans worldwide were deflated last Tuesday when the German team, which entered the tournament with mixed expectations soon became a favourite, lost 2-0 to an injury plagued Italian team. Germany however was able to partially redeem themselves by placing third in the tournament with yesterday’s 3-1 win.

At 2 pm today it will be seen whether or not the drama continues when France and Italy clash in the Final.