I thought the Germans’ ruthless efficiency was mostly de-mythicized during this World Cup. They were utterly clinical in counter-attacking football against idiotic defending teams like England – but they can be hardly blamed for that. Besides, you can;t deny that a countering, sweeping move on the break isn’t entertaining – it’s what Spain won the dull final by.

Without wanting to sound too much like a kid, or an American, I thought the Spanish were too organised and packed the midfield to ever really ‘enjoy’ their games. They managed seven goals in eight games, and conceded only two – so their strength is really on organisation and great team drive to get men back behind the ball when they lose possession – incredibly skillful and admirable, but not necessarily entertaining. In comparison the Germans scored sixteen goals and conceded five – the latter suggesting why they didn’t win the World Cup but the former would have to question whether they were ruthlessly efficient.

Ultimately Spain won it though – so me suggesting Germany were the better team makes no real sense, and my biggest disapointment was how ineffectual the Germans were against the Spanish in the semi-final – sadly where more ruthless efficiency might have made it more of a fight (although hopefully not ‘fight’ as in the Dutch sense of the word).

Henry.

You touch on something I have never understood about the Olympics. I thought it was a celebration of ‘amateur’ sport – the reason why boxers who turn professional can’t then compete in the next Olympics. How then can ‘professional’ footballers, basketball players etc. represent their countries?

Agree Henry. I’m not sure we were the worst though – I think France take that gong.

For me pass and move = entertainment. I’m finding it hard to see how the Germans’ ruthless efficiency is more entertaining than Spain.

Not stupid at all, very touching in fact. I remember feeling the similar when my son or daughter came back from a school trip and bought me a small present with their limited funds.

I’m in my 40s Colin and I also understand exactly what you mean about following England. In my case it was meeting people from other countries (and occasionally visiting those countries for more than just a holiday) and realising that I actually respected their differing lifestyles and cultures. I then began to reflect on why I needed to feel superior to them – as so many English do. At that point I ceased to care whether or not they beat us at football as long as it was a good game.