The world at your feet?

It is not a mere pastime. Neither is it just a recreational tool to strengthen the body and mind. It is more than that. It is an institution. The followers are so many and so religiously follow it every turn of event that it can be called a religion. It gives hope to the downtrodden and something for the rudderless to look forward too. Many a poor boy get pulled off from the shackles of poverty as it provides an equal level field for all to play. It does not discriminate race, creed or breed.

I am talking about football, as most of the world names it. Soccer to the other half who until recently thought it was a sissies’ game. They exclusively reserved the good name to the brawn clashing duel of unthinking cavemen with a misshapenned oblong structure erroneously named ball.

A visit to the temple of Spanish football stadium of Real Madrid showed how this game had infiltrated into the soul of the Spaniards. With more century of history behind them and loads of stories of victories, near misses, fantastic saves, miraculous comeback wins and many many more, they can go on talking about it forever.

There can be no other more efficient lubricant than sports. One does not have to go far to ignite the amber of nationalism. Get the national team to compete against the neighbours, and the country would see a sudden surge in camaraderie amongst its citizens.

Something so good cannot be without its vices. If previously tobacco and alcohol were blatantly advertised with the game, now the hidden hand behind this establishment have wised up. Their approach has been subtle, and gambling is legalised. The question is much the general public can reap its benefits. Is it just an opiate to numb the people off the real issues that plague them on a daily basis?

The temple - Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Homeground of Real Madrid.

The Chalices - Proof of their prowess.

The ever forgotten step-sibling - Valencia.

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