Sunday, June 11, 2006

Portugal day(s)

Yesterday it was Portugal's national day. And its communities all over the world. This day is always shadowed by my father's birthday, so I never pay much attention to it. Especially when everyone is just so keen on criticizing the country, the government and the portuguese in general, me included. I'd like to be more proud of my country for more reasons, other than football and past conquests. But things are looking very grey over here lately (apart from the portuguese flags on every window there is).
So after the national day, there was the day the team started the World Cup (with a 1-0 win over Angola). I'm surprised (but glad) that it was such a peaceful game. However, I had my heart on my sleeve the whole time, always with a feeling that the 1-0 would give place to a tragedy - a draw or maybe even a defeat!
We started really well and it would have been beautiful to get that goal at only 18 seconds...but it wasn't meant to be. We should have scored at least another goal in the first half, so I wouldn't have to suffer so much. But, in a way, I'm happy it turned out like this because the nerves are essential in a football match. :) And I wish Angola good luck from now on. They deserve it.

7 comments:

kimananda said...

It was a good game...I would have prefered 2 to Portugal and 1 for Angola...they deserved a goal, I thought (but I want the points for Portugal!) What's your feeling/prediction about the Iran and Mexico games?

Devil Mood said...

Jackt: hehe I hope so too! Don't be frightened by the US result, I'm sure they can do a lot better than that...

Maddy: I try to be a good sport. Thanks!

Kimananda: Yes, 2-1 would be more accurate perhaps. I think Iran are better than Angola, they score a lot of goals so it should be difficult. And Mexico are really good, despite not having many "stars", they're the 4th best team in the world according to Fifa...

Stephanie said...

It's good to have pride in your country. Even if everyone's critical, there are always good things too. Believe me, it's difficult here too (WHO elected this guy anyway?) but don't even get me started :)

Good luck in the World Cup. So far, not so good here :(

Devil Mood said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Devil Mood said...

Stephanie: I know it must be frustrating for many americans to have that president - I felt frustrated too and I don't live there. But it's such a huge country, there are so many things going on, you can almost forget about him. As I've said to Jackt, I'm sure things will improve for your team :)

Meow (aka Connie) said...

The World Cup should be interesting. I'm going for Australia (of course). I hope Portugal goes well, too. How have they done in past World Cups ??
Take care, Meow

Devil Mood said...

Meow: You must be feeling happy with Australia right now! We've only been to 4 world cups. We were 3rd once, in 1966, that a distant memory now ;)