Brazil, you say? They know how to play football over there, don't they? But it's a long way for one so middle aged as I to travel.

So instead, I shall slouch into my leather armchair and view the tournament from this side of the Atlantic. I shall try and watch every game and will definitely make wildly inaccurate predictions too.

I do solemnly vow to give you a real sense of what it's like to not be at the World Cup. This is the blog where all the colour and atmosphere and passion of watching the world's greatest sporting tournament on a wall mounted widescreen really comes to life.

Monday, 7 July 2014

They Finished 5th: COSTA RICA

Hands up who had the Costa Ricans getting to the quarter finals? Out in the group stage I thought. Klinsmann warned the world that here was a team to be reckoned with.  And they dealt with Group D with ease beating Italy and Uruguay and keeping eliminated England at bay. Greece in the round of 16 looked a friendly draw.  Could have been a lot tougher, but it was still a hurdle that needed overcoming.  Holland was always going to be a toughie, and so it proved.  But Costa Rica leave having enjoyed their best ever World Cup.  Their contribution to this great tournament will not be forgotten.