My top highlights of the World Cup
For what it’s worth. By Linda Diano.

The FIFA World Cup has come and gone. Phewf. What a great sporting event. Here are my thoughts, as I say ‘for what it’s worth.’ I bet you have your own lists.

1. Brazilian soccer kids singing their hearts out during the Brazilian national anthem. Virtually screaming the anthem.

2. Lionel Messi, the touted superstar from Argentina, keeping his play clean in all situations.

3. Thomas Mueller, of Germany, for his raw facial expressions when he misplayed the ball (usually tongue out in exasperation).

4. Robin van Persie of the Netherlands giving away his captain armband to a loyal fan after winning 3rd place.

5. Manuel Neuer (German goalkeeper), James Rodriguez (Colombian midfielder) and almost every single goalkeeper.

6. Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, and Mexico. Period.

7. David Luiz of Brazil consoling James Rodriguez of Colombia after Brazil beat them in the quarter-finals.

8. The Brazilian fan who gave the German fan his World Cup replica after Brazil lost in the semi-finals.

9. Seeing two powerful women in a sea of male leaders – Angela Merkel, Chancellor of Germany and Dilma Rousseff, President of Brazil.

My personal hopes

That the Brazilian team reconciles with themselves about what happened on the pitch. A big lesson and one that should not ruin their lives though you fear it might.

That the world take Lionel Messi off the pedestal.

Most important, two large social injustices – lack of women and lack of resources or care for Brazilian citizens.

That FIFA gets that having women in top leadership positions is essential. They reveal and declare their commitment to including women. The World Cup is not for men, it’s for everyone. Otherwise FIFA remains archaic and continues to misrepresent their constituents – the paying fans and the paying countries.

That FIFA and host countries stop directing the people’s money on infrastructure (why was a stadium built in the jungle to host just 4 games???) Direct funds and revenues equally towards healthcare and social services. Halt the gentrification and forced removal of people from their homes to suit the needs of stadium developers. Above all, do no demonize locals for protesting.

What a delight this World Cup has been!! Thank you Brazil and South America. Until 2016 when we see you again for the Summer Olympics.