Thursday, June 27, 2024

Misery and Joy

In group E everyone could go through as we entered the last round, and expectations were yet again that Belgium, ranked one of the best teams in the world, would defeat Ukraine and win the group. The match ended 0-0 and Belgium went through on second spot anyway as Slovakia and Romania tied 1-1, putting the Romanians as surprising winners of Group E, and Ukraine as the unlucky last despite getting 4 points. Belgium was awful though; the pampered millionaire superstars appeared offended that Ukraine played better and ended the match defending and going for 0-0 against a side that they should defeat. And they appeared more offended when their own fans howled and whistled at them because of a performance that was frankly disrespectful to everyone.

You are millionaire entertainers. When you do not entertain, admit it.

Contrast the Belgian misery to Georgia, who went through in group F as best third placed team with 4 points after defeating the Portuguese superstars 2-0. The Georgian star Kvisha Kvaratskhelia scored a splendid first goal, while Georges Mikautadze made it 2-0 on a penalty (it was indeed penalty, but my concern is about the fact that it took VAR very long to call it). Portugal are nevertheless through on first spot in the group, but may not be as big favourites as they have been considered.

Georgia pulled the surprise and have progressed for the first time ever in a major tournament, The Georgians celebrated as if they had won the tournament, understandably, and it is clear that they play with the heart and commitment that the Belgians completely lack.

Both Belgium and Georgia are facing difficult matches: Georgia will face the undefeated Spanish side, while Belgium will face the mighty French side, and will have to show their fans that there is still something worth to cheer in Belgium.

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