No favourites, no underdogs

Though the World Cup may be a platform for 32 countries to compete for the biggest prize in football, it is in a way an elitist event. In the 20 editions before the ongoing one, there have been just e

Though the World Cup may be a platform for 32 countries to compete for the biggest prize in football, it is in a way an elitist event. In the 20 editions before the ongoing one, there have been just eight winners. Barring one or two others from time to time, the title contenders generally are also the usual suspects. Russia 2018 has offered a change in this respect: The gap between smaller and traditionally stronger sides has narrowed. Heavyweights Germany, Brazil, Argentina have looked ordinary against lesser teams like Mexico, Iceland and Costa Rica. Some of the top guns are not certain to go beyond the first round of group matches.

While this does not immediately suggest that this World Cup will produce a new champion, it shows that a formula has been devised by the underdogs to make life difficult for the favourites. It was seen in the last few editions as well, but this time there is a rise in the number of matches where things have been more or less even between teams separated by a distance on the ranking table. A notable development in this is the universalisation of a defensive system which originated in Europe. With the continent being the global capital of football and players from the world over plying their trade there, the method developed and polished in Europe has become the template for the rest of the world. Baring exceptions, it broadly propagates safety-first football devoid of frills. It’s practical, with no consideration for how it appears to the neutral onlooker.

With this becoming popular and teams embracing it for practical benefits, it’s time to get used to the sight of Goliath finding it difficult against David. For all his talent, Lionel Messi is still to do anything of note at this World Cup. Other gifted players, too, have failed to conquer such systematic and relentless defensive play. Successful evolution of this principle has reduced the difference between aspirants and also-rans. Whether this can also pave the way for a new champion has to be seen.

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