Why the 2018 FIFA World Cup may be the best in recent history

In 2010, we had the first World Cup to be held in Africa. We had extraordinary crowds, packing stellar stadiums, witnessing incredible games. From Tshabalala’s opener, greeted by a chorus of vuvuzelas, to Iniesta’s trophy clincher, 2010 was certainly one to remember. 

2014 brought the tournament to the nation that has won the most trophies in history; Brazil. The iconic Maracana was home to some tremendous fixtures, and across the nation, and world, soccer fans were treated to upsets, nail-biters, and blowouts; all the perfect makings of a great tournament. We were also witness to perhaps one of the most shocking games in recent World Cup recollection, that is, the 7-1 abuse of the host nation by eventual winners Germany. Ruthless, Löw’s side picked apart their opponents with precision, and had a tournament to remember for decades to come.

Russia are this years hosts for the World Cup. Not the first name one thinks of when asked for a soccer mad nation. However, it may be because of this, that Russia 2018 may be one of the most memorable tournaments in recent history. For one, the locals, like in South Africa, will play hosts to some of the world greats such as Messi, Ronaldo, and Neymar. The World Cup fever will grip, and will not let go for what will be hopefully four spectacular weeks of soccer. 

The 2018 tournament will see the return of holders Germany, eager to reclaim their crown. Giants Spain and France have returned to the form we all knew they were capable of, and with incredibly deep rosters, may advance deep into the contest. European champions Portugal, led by talisman Ronaldo, will hope to replicate their success on the world stage. Similarly, Iceland will hope to show the world that they truly are the real deal, by competing with the passion that allowed them to progress so far in Euro 2016, as well as winning the hearts of people worldwide. Brazil will hope to enact revenge for last time around, and neighbors Argentina will want to make up for falling at the last hurdle in 2014 against Germany, as well as for making a meal out of qualification. Nations such as Belgium will aim for success for the first time, England will seek a trophy for the first time since 1966, and newcomers Panama, along with all of the other teams will aim to make their country’s proud. 

2018 has all the makings to be the best World Cup in recent years, and I hope to help inform and guide you along the way, as teams battle it out in Russia for the prize of all prizes. Good luck to all of the participants, and thank you to the nation of Russia for playing host to such a prestigious tournament; I am sure you will provide a truly world class experience for us all.

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