And just like that, it's over! The 2014 World Cup in Brazil ended yesterday afternoon in a final game that offered, in a microcosm, what the tournament was as a whole: high drama, open play, and a great goal! There's truly nothing like the World Cup! Nations stop what they're doing and watch as their collective hope lies on the backs of 11 young men kicking a ball. The passion from both the players and the fans is unrivaled in any other sporting event. They both know how few and far between opportunities to shine in the world cup are. Only 8 nations have ever won the tournament, such a rare prize is lost not lost on either the knowledgeable player or fan. When Mario Goetze scored the World Cup winning goal in the 113th minute yesterday you could tell that he wasn't quite sure what exactly he'd done! The expression on his face was a mix of exuberant joy and overwhelmed unbelief! I hope you enjoyed the World Cup and learned a thing or two about the beautiful game along the way. We have a four year wait until we are graced with such viewing pleasure again so allow yourself a little time to relish in the glow of Brazil 2014 before you move onto domestic leagues and other sports.

I thought ESPN did a wonderful job in producing this video below and suggest you spend four minutes soaking it in if you haven't already!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Ex1giS7ezc

If you're interested about what the next 4 years will look like before the 2018 World Cup in Russia then check out my post on World Cup Qualifiers HERE. If you want to read any of my other posts on this years World Cup then be sure to check out these posts:

• World Cup 2014: A Laymans Guide
• (Rant) If You Thought USA vs Ghana Was Boring
• Why it's OK to TIE in Soccer (World Cup Rant #2)
• USA vs Germany (World Cup 2014)
• You’re in Luck America! The World Cup Just Got Simple!
• The Future of American Soccer

Michael