Croatia’s Opening Match

The following is an article that was published in a Croatian sports newspaper. I have loosely translated it. I think it shows the importance Croatia is placing on this game when we are already trying to find different ways of making through it.

Last time Brazil lost a WC opening game was 72 years ago
The 13th of June, 2006 will long be remembered in the lore of the Croatian Representation. To open their World Cup campaign dancing with Brazillans falls into legendary stories. Because, to put it simply, they are the best..the world bows to them; their personal charm and artistry with the ball makes them the idols of the soccer world. And now, the question of all questions – can we keep up?

Relaxed Cariocas
Through differing opinions which balance everything from total optimism (we beat the Argentinians, Brazil is next) to complete pessimism (not even God can help us) many will, unfortunately, place Croatias chances in the perceived laid back attitudes of the Cariocas at the beginning of these great games. This is a wrong perception.

Even though mere statistics cannot help either team, raw numbers can suggest an outcome. Brazil did, after all, loose their last WC opening game 72 years ago. It was 1934 in Italy, where the Spanish threw the sword (3:1), and only once more, at the first WC1930 did they loose to Yogoslavia (2:1).

Since 1934, in every first game Brazil has played, they have ‘terrorized’ their opponents through years of journalists statements about their ’shaky’ start. At the last four WC’s in the starting 90 minutes, they have scored a minimum of 2 goals…If we are to look for hidden ways to victory, we are going to need alot more than hope that the five time champions will not be in the mood that day.
But, anything’s possible…..

Does Cico have an Ace
Brazil rarely (read never) loose their opening match, so betting on the ‘bad start’ card is a loosing proposition. Even though many optimists believe differently, Cico and company will have to pull more than just aces out of their sleeves.

Maybe our Brazilian can figure something out. Da Silva for President if we win!