Confederations Cup a happy surprise; but dark clouds loom

I wasn’t keen on the Confederations Cup to begin with. I didn’t see the point in such a tournament and bemoaned that it was another money maker for Blatter and his cronies.

Truthfully, that’s what it is, but it is also a rehearsal for Brazil ahead of their hosting of the World Cup next year. 

Contrary to my initial perception, I have found the tournament quite enjoyable thus far. Italy and Japan played out a stormer the other night with the game ending 4-3 to the Azzuri. Neymar has used the tournament as a stage to showcase his magnificent skill set and demonstrate exactly why Barcelona splashed so much cash on the young Brazilian.

Spain’s utter demolition of Tahiti last night displayed why a fourth consecutive international success could well be on the cards as the scored ended, hilariously, at 10-0.

A dark cloud has been hanging over proceedings, however, with the country currently in turmoil as millions have taken to the streets in protest over perceived unfairness, brought on partly by how much it has cost the public to organise the forthcoming World Cup.

The unrest has led some to call for an end to the tournament as it clearly is not helping the mood. Furthermore, there are those who are now questioning whether or not the country is stable enough for a World Cup to be played there. 

FIFA have been quick to deny that there have been any talks regarding an early stop to the tournament but that it is even an issue is worrying.