Fan of the Week – Brazil Bound

Going to Brazil? Sadly I’m not, but we have found three fans lucky enough to be heading to what can only be described as a ‘once in a lifetime experience’.  A World Cup in Brazil is the ultimate for football fans, and although the draw hasn’t fallen Australia’s way they are sure to have a great time regardless.

They were good enough to answer a few questions for us before packing their bags, and reading up on the World Cup.

What is your first World Cup memory?

Maurice Riva (MR) – Mexico 1970, Pele winning the WC and retiring on the shoulders of a player

Simon Overall (SO) – France 1998 – Wasn’t really into Football much before then!

Guy McLoghlin (GM) – 1994 was the first World Cup I remember, but only bits. I remember Colombia, Valderama’s hair and especially Escobar’s own goal. I didn’t understand it for years, but was amazed that he was killed for it.

Favourite World Cup moment?

MR – 1986 Maradona’s goal v England

SO – Definitely pouring onto George St with 1000’s of others after the Socceroos beat Japan 3-1 in 2006. Amazing.

GM – Being a mad Arsenal fan, watching Bergkamp score in the last minute against Argentina. After he missed the cup FA Final, I was so happy for him. That goal is sublime. The 2nd best goal I’ve ever seen, after his at Newcastle in 2002.

What’s your favourite Socceroos moment?

MR – 2005 at Homebush qualifying for Germany 2006

SO – Getting into the Round of 16 in Germany – no one gave us a chance and we really shut a lot of critics up!

GM – Has to be Cahill’s 2nd against Japan. In the Dickens in Melbourne, the tension was ridiculous. The pub was heaving after the equaliser, but when the 2nd went in I was overcome with joy and dropped to my knees as people jumped around me going crazy. The third was pure bliss, and thousands of people joined together on Swanston street and marched singing and dancing to parliament steps. I had tears in my eyes.

Favourite Socceroos player, and why?

MR – Harry Kewell, special talent. Cahill a close second.

SO – Bresciano – always underrated for me, and a good guy in real life as well.

GM – Of all time, Viduka. Melbourne boy, pure class, a beast… He could do no wrong in my eyes.
Current, Tim Cahill. Great bloke, great footballer, great Aussie.

How many games are you going to in Brazil?

MR – Four or five pending results