World Cup Commentary - July 8, 2014

There has been a lot said about the World Cup this year.  Soccer faithful have been disappointed in the quality of play.  The traveling demands and schedules have perplexed several teams.  The FIFA plays favorites.  The American fans had hope, but in the end the US was snubbed in the round of 16 again.  Some are optimistic about the future of soccer in the US while others are down right frustrated with the tactical approach of the coach.  When are Americans going to stop being so naive?  When are the Brits going to stop being so arrogant?  When is the flopping going to stop?

I prioritize major sporting events so I've made sure to watch as much of the World Cup as possible.  I also watch the Olympics religiously and glue myself to the television for major championships like the Super Bowl, World Series, The Masters, Wimbledon, American Idol, etc.  It doesn't matter if I enjoy or understand the sport.  I appreciate watching the best in the world in any given field perform at the most opportune time under the highest stakes in front of a global audience.  I tune in for the outcome and sports relevance, however, I'm most interested in the game inside the game.  I look for what is happening behind the scenes.  I try to see the things the announcers don't talk about or the things that don't fit into statistical categories.  I want to put my thumb on that something that can't be described -- the intangibles that separate the good from the great and the memorable moments that make someone or something legendary.  I want that insider's look at history and how it unfolds.  I try to crawl inside the mind of superstars who transcend themselves above mankind for the duration of the contest.

Today was one of the most historic soccer games ever played.  In the storied history of the World Cup, it was one-of-kind.   The home team being shelled 7-1 is only part of the story.  Brazil had not suffered defeat on home soil since 1975 and Germany managed to score four of their goals in a six minute time span.  It was an extraordinarily lopsided event.  Brazil is a very good team, but they looked like amateurs against the well-oiled machine that was Germany.  The Germans played as a cohesive unit for 90 minutes while Brazil appeared disheveled from the start.

Highlights will be played over and over leading into the championship finals game on Sunday.  Commentary will not be light in critiquing the play of both teams and analyzing how it will affect them this weekend.  Germany had their foot on the gas pedal from beginning to end.  Brazil had moments that created chances, but their overall performance was lackluster, at best.  After watching the entire spectacle, there is a certain level of professionalism from both teams that seemed to go unnoticed and in the closing minutes of the game, there were a few things that caught my eye.

Oscar's late goal might have been a glimmer of light in Brazil's dark game, however, I was struck most by the reaction of German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer in that moment.  He didn't become one of the world's top goalies with an attitude of complacency and he was not happy that Brazil took away his shut out.  It was a terribly defended pass that set-up Oscar and Neuer vocalized to his teammates that taking a break, even when ahead 7-0, is completely unacceptable.  That moment might have a bigger impact on Germany if they are to win the World Cup than any of their seven goals today.  Neuer was not about to let a moment of accountability slip by.  That's the mark of a great leader.

Germany has a very talented and experienced roster and is not short on leadership.  Brazil, on the other hand, was completely void of leadership today.  There wasn't an individual who was able to rally the troops, put them on his back or inspire anyone.  Silva and Neymar score goals, but they also provide leadership.  That was sorely missed.  This game showed the stark contrast between the value of leadership (and team cohesion) and misguided talent working at it alone.  Germany has some tremendous athletes, but not like Brazil, USA or Ghana and they have dismantled each with teamwork, attention to detail and great execution.  That's what a championship team is made of.

I also took notice of the Brazilian fans and their emotional connection to their team and the to the sport they love.  They were crushed when they saw the writing on the wall.  After Germany went up 4-0, there was a camera shot of a little boy crying big crocodile tears into a large cup.  It broke my heart.  They showed many tears throughout the game.  Late in the game, though, the Brazilians started applauding Germany.  They were crushed, but they appreciated the effort of their counterparts and understood good soccer.  No matter the outcome, they had been witness to greatness on the pitch.  They were thankful for that.  Those who truly appreciate their sport understand the once in a lifetime moments and put their preferences aside to soak it in.

How does what Germany did today translate into individual sports?