The World Cup That Was
by Angie V. Garcia on July 17, 2010
If you haven’t heard of the Waka Waka song sung by Shakira and the South African band Freshlyground, you might probably be living under a rock. With catchy African beats and inspiring lyrics, the song has been on constant repeat on my post-summer soundtrack.
For millions of people across the globe, it lingers to be the official anthem for this year’s most anticipated sports event, the FIFA World Cup. Like Ricky Martin’s “The Cup of Life” and Chumbawamba’s “Tubthumping” in previous World Cup tournaments, it showcases a release of long-awaited excitement that one can truly experience watching a World Cup game.
When asked what the Waka Waka song meant, Shakira said it was a miracle of global excitement, connecting every country, race, religion and condition around a single passion. She couldn’t have said it any better.
This four-week festivity brings people all over the world together as they watch 32 teams battle it out to garner the title of 2010’s FIFA World Cup champions.
Being a loyal supporter of Brazil ever since their 2002 victory, I still remember how devastated I was when they lost against France in the quarterfinals back in 2006. Sadly, fate has decided 2010 just wasn’t their year once again.
Like a leap year or fulfilling a course in college, this sports spectacle doesn’t come too often. Yet I noticed a majority of the people here in the Philippines remain unfazed to this international event. In a country where basketball remains loyal in everyone’s hearts, the intensity of the Lakers vs. Celtics finals surpasses this international event.
Numerous sports bars and hotels may host public screenings around the country, but it is nothing compared to what other countries that caught the World Cup fever would do.
Thanks to the internet, it endows a sanctuary for fans to express their passionate frustrations and optimism. Twitter feeds and Facebook statuses are filled with frequent outcries to support their country of preference. Heated debates may arise, with the subject of why this team is better than this team prevailing the usual gossip and rants.
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