FIFA WORLD CUP FINAL
2002
Match Report: -
Justice is done, as Brazil secure another World Cup victory. Ronaldo being the star of the show and the whole world cup. he has been exceptional and you really have to take your hat off to him, he has had 4 terrible years of injury and what a comeback he did in this world cup. He has scored 8 goals in 7 games, a new record. It has been a world cup full of brand new records.
Germany have rode their luck to get to the final, but they did play very well today, what they weren't ready for was the now the fully fit and on-form Ronaldo, who was carried around the pitch after the game. It was also especially good for Cafu who has played in his last world cup, and you could tell he enjoyed the moment when he was standing on the podium, lifting the worlds biggest prize, high into the air. Congratulations to him and his team for some great entertainment, just a shame that it came against England who have nothing to worry about, as we have a strong, young squad. Our turn will come.
To the game itself, both teams started shakily as nerves applied pressure to the players. However the game settled and we saw some attacking football from both teams, it was end to end stuff right up until the half time whistle, but the deadlock could not be broken.
After half time, both teams started to attack further, and it took a while for the opening goal to come, thanks to the two keepers. The breakthrough finally came after some great play and commitment from Ronaldo. A fumble by Kahn from Rivaldo's shot jumped out of his hands and Ronaldo was ready to pounce from 5 yards, to take advantage of Kahn's mistake.
The second goal came 12 minutes later when a ball came across the 18 yard box, Rivaldo did a nice step over to deceive Metzelder and Ronaldo was there to finish with a low drive that Kahn had no chance with, it clipped the post and rolled into the net for his 8th goal of the tournament, impressive stuff.
Germany fought back straight away and they showed that they were not going to shut up shop. They piled forward but just couldn't get past Marcos, the Brazilian keeper who pulled off a great save.
The final whistle went and celebrations were emphatic, with Ronaldo being carried around the pitch. Kahn unable to hide his disappointment at the end.
The Germans had done well but maybe they were lucky to be in the final. But it was Brazil's day and may the celebrations go on into the night. Congratulations Brazil as they do it again, they prove that they are the best team around at the moment. With Ronaldo on this form, who can stop them?
