Ok, enough of the EPL league crap. Time to reverse-hijack this thread. Who is everyone pulling for now that our boys are out if it?
The English in me says "definitely not France", so no brainer there. Beyond that, I am torn.
The Dutch in me says to go with Robben and Robin, which isn't so bad because I like their style but LOATHE admitted divin (Robben).
The German in me says Germany, and that wouldn't be so bad. They are strong and score a lot, but can be boring too. And Muller is a cocky SOB.
The Irish in me already celebrated when Italy went home.
I'm not Belgian, but I do love waffles, and since I am also 1/4 Canadian, have a sweet tooth for maple. Also, I respect the heck out of that team for how they played against us (no cheap shite), and there is much to be said for seeing the ones that beat you win the whole thing. But that Screech Sweathog guy...ugh.
I've never been partial to Brazil, and since they have the home field advantage, I gotta pass on them.
I'm a religious mutt as well, and the Catholic side of me says "Pope Francis is from Argentina", but Jesus isn't walking out on that field, unfortunately. Just Messi, Di Maria and 9 other guys. They need the Hand of God to get all the way through. Although, I did once know a DeMaria, so they could be a possibility.
Columbia is an interesting possibility. Very talented, fun to watch, but my ex-brother in law was part Columbian and a weasel. Sorry Carlos Valderamma, gonna have to pass.
That leaves Costa Rica...the Cinderella Story. CONCACAF's lone warrior. I love Campbell. Dude has game. They are as far as they have ever gone and deserve respect for what they have achieved. That said, chances are slim they go any farther, so not much fun picking a one-and-done.
So, the big decision. Who should I throw lots in with? Do I go with heritage? Do I go with style of play? Do I go with a cool player?
Sigh...ok here we go.
Costa Rica...sorry, but my Dutch mates make mince meat out of you. I'm going with Robin VP...for now.
Colombia...I am a fan for one game. Take out Brazil and I might send a card to my ex-brother in law.
Germany. Yep. It's gotta be Germany...at least until they force France's unconditional surrender by halftime.
At the risk of getting a nasty phone call from Pope Francis, I can't cheer for his native land. The ghosts of Maradona linger. I like Messi, and my daughter LOVES him, but I'll risk the cold shoulder for a week.
I'm pulling for a Netherlands - Belgium final. I want to see new blood on the throne of World Futbol. I like both teams and can support either one openly and honestly as they hoist the trophy. Belgium earned a ton of respect from me last night. They have some straight up ballers. That would be a dynamite offensive match-up. As for my top choice...it's going to come down to the Sweathog, unfortunately. Can I cheer for him? Gosh. That hair. That bloody mop! The whining. Nope. New Netherland all the way!!! But watch out for the Waffles.