As the German and Argentinian players strolled out
into the raucous atmosphere of the Maracana to compete for the most prestigious
trophy in the world; I felt that nothing could supersede such a sporting
occasion. A World Cup finale is a peerless event. But aside from a tournament
climax that arises every four years, international football fails to capture
the excitement of the beautiful game at club level.
Contemplate football team rivalries. Reminisce Sir
Alex Ferguson knocking Liverpool off their throne to make Manchester United the most successful
English club in history. The contempt shared by Real Madrid and Barcelona
supporters will generate unprecedented anticipation this year as Rodriguez,
Bale and Ronaldo stand in the tunnel beside Messi, Neymar and the notorious
Suarez as they await battle. Unfortunately, international football does not replicate
this antagonism. Another England Scotland friendly clash will not get hearts
racing like a derby match involving our favourite teams.
At club level, top players are surrounded by greats.
It can be assured that Gareth Bale is more startled entering the Real Madrid
dressing room than meeting up with his Welsh teammates in Cardiff. Watching a Portugal
or Columbia match where individual stars are present can be fascinating,
but witnessing a team of quality players makes for better viewing. Aside from
world champions Germany, no international team beholds the excellence of a Real
Madrid for example. Club level consists of greater teams and better matches.
International friendlies are often tedious affairs.
Contrast that to the buzz created from premier league teams on pre-season in
America. People craved to catch highlights of Manchester United’s drubbing of
LA Galaxy to see how Louis Van Gaal has redefined the Red Devils. Supporters
have a genuine interest in club practice matches and this attentiveness
declines when an international friendly is aired on television.
Competitive international competitions like the
European Championships and the World Cup are wonderful events that help make
international football appealing. But club football has a variation of special
tournaments that consistently entertains spectators. Watching a premier league
match on a Saturday, then a Champion’s League encounter midweek followed by the
next round of the FA Cup at the weekend is exhilarating
Most of us fell in love with football through the club game. Growing up and seeing the invincible Arsenal team inspired us along
with Liverpool’s memorable comeback against AC Milan in the Champion’s
League final. Such occasions are what created our passion. Although the
international game will always generate an implacable interest and phenomenal
attraction, nothing quite beats club football.
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