A Year of Frustration: Brazil’s National Team Ends 2024 in Stalemate Against Uruguay

The Brazilian national team’s 1-1 draw against Uruguay in Salvador was more than another result. It was a microcosm of a year marked by underwhelming performances, systemic frailties, and dwindling inspiration. The Seleção, now under the guidance of Dorival Junior, closed in 2024 in one of its most melancholic states.

Despite losing only one of 14 matches this year, Brazil won just six and drew seven. While superficially respectable, these numbers mask deeper issues: a toothless attack, a defence prone to lapses, and an overall lack of cohesion. It is a bitter pill to swallow for a nation whose footballing identity is steeped in flair and dominance.

The match against Uruguay offered little solace. Without Vanderson, suspended, Dorival turned to Danilo at right-back, retaining most of the lineup that had stumbled against Venezuela. Uruguay, under the meticulous Marcelo Bielsa, made a few adjustments of their own, notably bolstering midfield solidity with Manuel Ugarte. The tweaks, however, did little to disguise Brazil's ongoing struggles.

The Struggles of Control Without Creativity

Brazil dominated possession from the outset, dictating the tempo and pinning Uruguay into their half. Yet, as has become routine, this control bore little fruit. The offensive repertoire was uninspired; the creativity seemed stifled. Uruguay’s defensive discipline was admirable, their structure designed to channel Brazil’s attacks into predictable patterns.

The Seleção’s brightest moments came when Raphinha and Vinícius Júnior combined in tight spaces near the centre, probing Uruguay’s compact lines. These flashes, however, were sporadic. Support for wide players like Savinho and Abner was scant, with few overlapping runs or incisive movements to unbalance the Uruguayan backline.

Bruno Guimarães, one of Brazil’s more proactive players, tried to inject urgency with his passing and forward runs. Yet, even his efforts couldn’t mask the lack of attacking fluidity. The “lose-and-press” strategy yielded occasional moments of regained possession high up the pitch, but these seldom translated into genuine opportunities.

Defensive Frailties Revisited

As has been a theme throughout the year, Brazil’s defensive lapses proved costly. Uruguay’s opener encapsulated this vulnerability. Federico Valverde, afforded time and space on the edge of the box, lashed a sublime strike past a static Brazilian defence. It was a moment that highlighted Brazil's passivity in critical phases of the game.

Dorival sought to rejuvenate his team with substitutions. Luiz Henrique and Gabriel Martinelli replaced Abner and Igor Jesus, while Raphinha shifted to an unconventional left-back role. The adjustments brought brief moments of energy and unpredictability. Martinelli came tantalizingly close to turning the game around after Gérson’s stunning equalizer—a curling effort from the edge of the area that momentarily lifted Brazilian spirits.

Uruguay’s Resilience

Uruguay, to their credit, showcased the hallmark traits of a Bielsa-coached side: organization, intensity, and adaptability. Giménez and Olivera were imperious in defence, thwarting Brazil’s advances with crucial interventions in the dying moments. Their ability to absorb pressure without succumbing reflected a team's confidence in its structure and purpose.

A Year to Forget

For Brazil, this draw marked the conclusion of a year riddled with introspection and frustration. The gap between the potential of the players—many of whom shine at club level—and their output for the national team is glaring. The lack of a cohesive attacking philosophy and the recurring defensive lapses suggest systemic issues that cannot be resolved through minor adjustments.

As 2025 approaches, the Seleção stands at a crossroads. The talent pool remains vast, but the challenge lies in harnessing it into a team that not only wins but inspires. Without significant tactical evolution, Brazil risks further estrangement from its footballing roots—and its fans.

For now, the echoes of Salvador linger: control without penetration, talent without synergy, and promise unfulfilled. The road back to greatness, it seems, will be long and arduous.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

Brazil’s Improved Performance in Venezuela: A Tale of Progress and Missed Opportunities

Brazil's 1-1 draw against Venezuela might not have yielded the desired result, but it underscored a crucial shift in the team's trajectory: a marked improvement in both tactical coherence and offensive fluency. While the final scoreline might suggest a missed opportunity, the match offered a clear contrast to the stifling performance against Ecuador and reflected a deeper evolution in Brazil’s playstyle since the Copa América debacle.

The premise of judging Brazil’s performance based on its style of play, rather than the mere result, remains relevant. If this same criterion was applied to the unconvincing victory over Ecuador, it is only fair to extend it to Brazil’s more coherent display against Venezuela. Despite a disappointing outcome, Brazil emerged with a greater sense of purpose on the pitch, creating far more offensive volume than what was witnessed during their previous struggles. The team managed to maintain the ambition of their offensive identity, pressing high, controlling possession, and consistently looking to impose their will on the opposition. These traits, though not enough to secure all three points, nevertheless showcased a clear improvement in their overall game.

Tactical Intent and Attacking Dynamics

The tactical game plan was evident from the outset: Brazil sought to engage with the match in the same assertive manner they had in earlier fixtures, displaying the attacking instincts that have become their hallmark under coach Dorival Júnior. What stood out was the impressive mobility of the attacking quartet. In contrast to the stagnation seen during the Copa América, Brazil's forward line — particularly Vinícius Júnior, Raphinha, and the ever-dynamic Gerson — exhibited a more fluid and vertical attacking approach. This energy was complemented by the midfield support of Bruno Guimarães, who provided the necessary verticality to break through Venezuela’s defensive lines. The movement was purposeful and direct, with little wasted time on languid ball circulation.

The result was a more incisive Brazil, eager to transition quickly from defence to attack. Early chances underscored this shift. Raphinha’s precise free kick in the first half gave Brazil a deserved lead, while Vinícius Júnior’s counterattack, resulting in a thunderous strike that rattled the post, further exemplified the team’s heightened offensive sharpness. In fact, the first half offered multiple moments of brilliance: from Romo’s brilliant save to prevent an own goal to Savinho’s intelligent assist to Vinícius. Brazil was aggressive, fluid, and cohesive in their offensive endeavours, a significant departure from the disjointed performances of their recent past.

Defensive Weaknesses and the Issue of Space

However, as is often the case with teams in transition, Brazil’s defensive shortcomings were exposed at times. In particular, the team’s defensive transitions were less assured. The vulnerability was most evident early in the second half when Venezuela exploited the spaces left in Brazil’s midfield and defensive lines. Brazil's high-pressing game initially disrupted Venezuela’s build-up, but a lack of aggression in both pressing and passing allowed the Venezuelans to regain control, particularly as they began playing more aerial balls. In these moments, Brazil’s defensive midfielders, Bruno Guimarães and Gerson, found themselves stretched, forced to cover large gaps with little support. This ultimately led to Venezuela’s equalizer, a goal that came from a lack of defensive compactness in Brazil’s central zone — a direct consequence of their high pressing and subsequent gaps in coverage.

The defensive frailties became more apparent as the match progressed, and Brazil's inability to assert full control in the second half allowed Venezuela to create additional pressure. Despite recovering the ball in key areas, Brazil struggled to turn these moments into concrete chances, and their defensive midfielders — stretched by the attacking pressure — were often left exposed. This imbalance, akin to a "short blanket" effect, left crucial spaces open, especially in the “mouth of the funnel” — the zone in front of the penalty area. While it was clear that Guimarães and Gerson were working hard to cover these areas, their efforts were not always enough to prevent attacks from materializing.

Missed Opportunities and Tactical Adjustments

As the match drew on, Dorival Júnior sought to address the tactical imbalance by introducing attacking reinforcements, sacrificing defensive stability to increase the offensive threat. However, the Venezuelan defence, having been backed into a corner, proved difficult to break down, especially as they settled into a defensive stance after equalizing. The penalty miss by Vinícius Júnior — a rare mistake from Brazil’s most potent forward — seemed to encapsulate the frustrations of the evening. Brazil had opportunities, but the final execution, whether in front of goal or in defensive situations, let them down at critical moments.

Despite these setbacks, Brazil’s fluidity in attack was a notable improvement. The team's energy and tactical intentions were clear, and it was evident that Dorival’s system was beginning to bear fruit. While the defensive issues need refinement, particularly in maintaining balance between pressing and defensive compactness, the overall trajectory remains positive.

A Step Forward, but Room for Improvement

While frustrating in its result, the 1-1 draw with Venezuela presented a clear picture of Brazil’s ongoing evolution under Dorival Júnior. The team displayed far more attacking fluidity than during the Copa América, with dynamic play in the final third and a more cohesive attacking unit. Yet, as the match highlighted, there are still questions about the team’s defensive organization and ability to manage transitions under pressure.

Looking ahead, Brazil can take solace in their attacking game being far more effective and dangerous. The challenge will be to fine-tune their defensive structures, ensuring that their forward momentum does not come at the cost of exposing themselves in transition. The next challenge in Salvador against Uruguay, who remains a formidable opponent, will be a true test of whether Brazil can maintain their offensive growth while shoring up its defensive weaknesses.

In the end, while Brazil may have deserved more from the match, their performance offers grounds for optimism. The style of play, full of intent and joy, was undoubtedly a positive takeaway, and with further refinement, Brazil may well be on the path to reclaiming its place at the top of South American football.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Pakistan Cricket: An Enigma of Triumph and Turmoil

Pakistan’s cricketing journey has been a perpetual narrative of contradictions and surprises. Since Fazal Mahmood’s heroic spell against England in 1954, where he defended a meagre total of 99 at The Oval, Pakistan’s presence in international cricket has puzzled and fascinated fans. It’s a team that embodies the highest highs and the lowest lows. They might collapse for a paltry score of 43 one day, only to rebound and put 350 on the board against the world’s best the next. Even when the opposition needs a mere ten runs with ten wickets in hand, Pakistan’s pacers can conjure up magic, pulling victories out of the jaws of defeat. It’s a paradox that has come to define Pakistan cricket: a perfect storm of brilliance and calamity.

Yet, Pakistan’s biggest challenge often isn’t its opposition but its own cricket board. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has long been renowned for its dysfunction, known as much for its musical chairs of leadership as for its inability to maintain a steady cricketing structure. Administrators appear and disappear with little clarity about who is actually in control or what vision they uphold. Amidst this backdrop, stability is a foreign concept. Captains change frequently, coaches come and go, and any semblance of consistency seems like a fleeting mirage. Talented players emerge, shine briefly, and vanish just as quickly, their potential often stifled by administrative chaos.

And yet, amid the disarray, Pakistan Cricket continues to dazzle the world. Their recent ODI series victory in Australia is a testament to their resilience and ability to surprise even the most skeptical observers. It was a triumph etched in both grit and artistry, a feat made more impressive given the challenges leading up to the tour. Australia prepared seaming and bouncing tracks, aimed squarely at Pakistan’s batting vulnerabilities, but Pakistan’s bowlers turned these conditions into weapons, wreaking havoc with pace and precision.

The first ODI at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) was a masterclass in unpredictability. Pakistan oscillated between despair and euphoria, their thrilling display of skill keeping the crowd on edge. Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf proved lethal, showing that Pakistani pace is a force not just of speed but of strategy. At Adelaide Oval, Pakistan continued their resurgence, with Rauf ripping through Australia’s middle order to claim his second five-wicket haul. In reply, Saim Ayub crafted a dazzling innings, launching a spectacular flick off Mitchell Starc into the stands, leading Pakistan to a nine-wicket victory with over 23 overs to spare.

This was no ordinary victory; it was a crushing defeat of the reigning ODI World Champions. With Australia’s batting in tatters, Rauf’s stellar bowling sent a clear message. His delivery to dismiss Marnus Labuschagne was sublime, drawing comparisons to the finest seamers in the game. Pakistan’s batsmen, led by Ayub and Abdullah Shafique, approached the chase with a blend of caution and confidence. The victory at Adelaide carried Pakistan’s momentum forward to Perth, where the memories of the 1992 World Cup triumph echoed, inspiring another historic performance.

At the Optus Stadium, the Pakistan team clinched their first ODI series win in Australia since 2002. This victory was especially remarkable, considering the tumultuous circumstances preceding the tour. White-ball head coach Gary Kirsten resigned mere days before the series, leaving the team reeling. However, under the temporary stewardship of Australian Test great Jason Gillespie, Pakistan found a new sense of purpose. The Gillespie-Rizwan partnership instilled discipline and unity, with a potent pace quartet dismantling an Australian lineup reduced to just 140 runs in 31.5 overs. The Pakistani bowlers showcased a deep understanding of the Australian conditions, hitting the perfect length and using disciplined line, pace variations, and a strategic approach that kept the Australian batsmen in check.

It was an inspired display of what Pakistan cricket can achieve when fueled by raw talent and determination. Against all odds and despite self-inflicted challenges, Pakistan emerged victorious Down Under, proving that sometimes, the greatest triumphs arise from adversity.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Humbling of India: New Zealand’s Historic 3-0 Triumph and the Lessons Learned

In a dramatic twist that the cricketing world could hardly have anticipated, New Zealand handed India a resounding 3-0 defeat on Indian soil — a feat previously considered near impossible. The series was one of grit, discipline, and a revival of classic Test cricket values, with New Zealand showcasing the strength of precision, patience, and relentless resolve. But the journey to this victory was neither smooth nor assured; it began under the scorching skies of Sri Lanka, where the Kiwis faced a humiliating 2-0 loss. By the time they arrived in Bangalore for the first Test against India, they were a team battered yet bound by an unwavering commitment to stay focused on the basics.

From Galle to Bangalore: A Tale of Resilience and Reinvention

In Sri Lanka, the Kiwi batsmen were floored by the Lankan spinners, succumbing to a disastrous 88-all-out in the second Test's opening innings. The attempted counterattacks were misguided, and the players were left grappling with the mental scars of their collapse. Lazy footwork and a lack of trust in their defensive play compounded their woes on Galle’s turning pitches. By the time they landed in India, their confidence was shaken. Yet, it was this adversity that became a crucible of transformation for New Zealand, a reminder that against the odds, simplicity in approach and precision in execution are invaluable assets.

The First Test: Shock and Awe in Bangalore

The first Test at Bangalore began, and with it, a performance that would stun the Indian crowd and the global cricket fraternity. On a pitch expected to favour the hosts, the New Zealand pacers defied the script, exploiting the morning moisture and disciplined seam movement. India, unexpectedly, crumbled to an astonishing 46-all-out. The New Zealand pacers who had struggled in the Sri Lankan heat found renewed vigor in Bangalore, swinging the momentum in their favour in a way rarely seen on Indian soil. This collapse was not only a jolt to India but a massive morale boost for the Kiwis, who went on to dominate the match and claim a resounding victory.

Series Momentum: A Reinvention of Approach

As the second Test in Mumbai began, India was now on the back foot, grappling with an unprecedented home defeat and trying to avoid the ignominy of a series loss. However, New Zealand, infused with confidence and a razor-sharp focus, never wavered. Batting with greater patience and clarity, they absorbed the Indian bowling onslaught and scored consistently. With Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner leading the spin attack, New Zealand found ways to maintain pressure through impeccable line and length, avoiding risky alterations and sticking to disciplined tactics.

The Indian batsmen, perhaps overconfident in familiar conditions, fell into the trap. Patel, Santner, and Phillips were not extravagant turners of the ball, but they displayed masterful control over drift and subtle variations in pace. India’s attempts to counterattack proved futile as the New Zealand spinners tightened their grip, and the hosts fell once again. The second Test was New Zealand's — a testament to their resilience and, ultimately, a series-clinching moment.

The Final Blow in Mumbai: India’s First Whitewash on Home Soil

By the third Test, India’s confidence was visibly frayed. They now fought to avoid a whitewash — a task that had seemed unimaginable at the series’ outset. Yet New Zealand was unrelenting, keen to seal the narrative with finality. In the post-lunch session on Day 3, Washington Sundar's desperate attempt to hit Ajaz Patel out of the ground ended in shattered stumps, as he slumped to his knees, defeated. The traditionally reserved New Zealand players erupted in celebration, the Wankhede crowd fell silent, and India’s fate was sealed: a 3-0 sweep, marking their first series whitewash at home.

Ajaz’s six for 57 in the final innings, complemented by a match haul of 11 wickets, must have been especially sweet given his previous Perfect 10 on this very ground three years earlier. This time, however, it came in a victorious cause, crowning New Zealand’s supreme achievement on Indian soil and writing a new chapter in the team’s history.

Analyzing the Victory: The Triumph of Discipline Over Glamour

New Zealand’s approach was one of quiet confidence and strategic prudence. They understood that success in India did not require complex tactics or dramatic flair but a faithful adherence to the basics. By consistently landing the ball on the right length, at or around off-stump, they sowed seeds of doubt in the minds of India’s batsmen, who found no easy scoring opportunities and no space for unbridled aggression.

India, arguably overconfident in their fortress-like home conditions, learned a harsh lesson. New Zealand’s disciplined strategy showcased that, even on the most challenging of pitches, when the fundamentals are executed with precision and purpose, the opposition can be neutralized. The series was a reminder that spin does not need to be overtly menacing to be effective; subtle drift and changes in pace can be just as destructive, especially when executed with the poise and consistency of New Zealand’s bowlers.

A Lesson in Temperament: The Resolve of New Zealand’s Batsmen

Perhaps the most striking aspect of New Zealand’s performance was their discipline with the bat. While India’s line-up featured some of the most lauded talents in modern cricket, New Zealand’s batsmen responded to every challenge with an unwavering resolve that outshone India’s famed resilience. Tom Latham, Rachin Ravindra, and the middle order played with focus and purpose, defending tirelessly and resisting India’s bowling attack with a calm that defied the odds.

In many ways, this series was a reality check for India’s “IPL Boys,” a reminder that the five-day format demands a different breed of tenacity. New Zealand’s batsmen reinforced that in Test cricket, a lapse in concentration can sink an entire innings. Their resolve under pressure, rather than flash or glamour, carried them through.

A New Standard for Visiting Teams

New Zealand’s 3-0 whitewash of India represents a watershed moment in Test cricket, challenging assumptions about the sport’s power dynamics and proving that even the most formidable cricketing strongholds can be breached. For New Zealand, this victory is more than just a series win; it is a blueprint for future teams looking to conquer foreign conditions. By committing to the basics, maintaining discipline, and embracing a never-say-die attitude, New Zealand showcased that winning in India is not only possible but can be done emphatically.

In the end, this series will be remembered as a masterclass in humility, resilience, and simplicity — a reminder that cricket, for all its complexities, is a game where the fundamentals remain paramount. New Zealand’s victory is a challenge to other teams to dream bigger, prepare better, and believe that no challenge is insurmountable. As the series closed, New Zealand had not only won a historic contest but had redefined what it means to be a champion team, in India and beyond.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

The Delhi Defiance: Sunil Gavaskar vs. Marshall Law, 1983-84

The second Test of the 1983-84 India-West Indies series at Delhi’s Feroz Shah Kotla was anticipated with a mixture of trepidation and curiosity. The memory of the Kanpur Test—a punishing defeat at the hands of Malcolm Marshall—was still fresh. The Indian camp was acutely aware of Marshall’s dominance and the psychological edge the West Indies held. Most analysts predicted that Delhi would bring no reprieve, especially on a track expected to do little to counteract Marshall's pace. But on this occasion, the narrative would take a dramatic turn, led by a defiant Sunil Gavaskar.

This innings was more than just another hundred for Gavaskar; it was a masterclass in mental fortitude, adaptability, and sheer skill.

A Calculated Decision to Bat First

India’s decision to bat first raised eyebrows. Choosing to face an in-form West Indies attack head-on seemed almost audacious given the recent collapse in Kanpur. But the Indian team saw an opportunity: they would aim to neutralize the West Indies' firepower by taking control of the game from the outset. And so Gavaskar, often seen as a cautious craftsman, stepped onto the field with a determination that would define not only the match but his legacy.

The Start of a New Gavaskar

As the innings commenced, Marshall wasted no time unleashing his signature weapon: a sharp, rising delivery. Yet, instead of ducking or swaying away—a hallmark of Gavaskar’s style—the opener held his ground and, in an uncharacteristic display, hooked the ball to the boundary. This shot wasn’t simply about scoring runs; it was a statement, a clear response to Marshall’s aggression and a message that Gavaskar was ready to dictate terms. 

This uncharacteristic aggression from the normally cautious Gavaskar injected an element of surprise into the West Indies’ calculated bowling attack. The crowd, expecting patient resistance, was treated to an exhilarating show of counterattacks and powerful hooks and pulls. Gavaskar was challenging not just Marshall but the aura of invincibility that had cloaked the West Indies bowling unit. 

Turning the Tables on “Marshall Law”

Marshall’s reputation as a relentless destroyer of batting line-ups was well-deserved. The memory of Kanpur was fresh—his speed, precision, and consistency had left India reeling. In Delhi, however, Gavaskar turned these strengths against him. His footwork was impeccable, as though he anticipated the movement of each delivery before it was bowled. His timing was extraordinary; each shot seemed carefully curated, and every stroke punctuated a mounting assault on the West Indian bowlers.

With a brisk fifty off just 37 balls, Gavaskar had already shifted the momentum. His approach was almost calculated in its defiance—he alternated between punishing deliveries with hooks and pulls and deflecting them with precision. By meeting aggression with controlled power, Gavaskar not only destabilized Marshall but disrupted the entire West Indies bowling rhythm.

Michael Holding, Marshall’s bowling partner and another fast-bowling great, attempted to counter Gavaskar’s dominance with his own pace, but Gavaskar’s bat continued to find gaps with surgical precision. The relentless barrage of boundaries from his blade forced the West Indies to rethink their strategies and adapt defensively—a rarity for a team accustomed to commanding the field.

A Dynamic Departure from the Conventional Gavaskar

The 29th century of Gavaskar’s career—equalling the legendary Sir Don Bradman’s record—was a milestone few expected him to reach in such a fashion. This was a Gavaskar unlike any seen before, one who defied his label as a cautious accumulator of runs. His scoring rate was remarkable: 121 runs from just 128 balls, including 15 fours and 2 sixes. It was an innings defined not by patience but by precision and controlled aggression, executed in the face of one of the fiercest attacks in cricket.

A memorable moment came when Gomes attempted to slow Gavaskar with a part-time spin; Gavaskar responded by lifting him over the ropes for six. This act wasn’t just a showcase of skill but a strategic reminder to the West Indies that Gavaskar was willing to take risks and defy expectations.

The Psychological Shift

While the game ended in a draw, Gavaskar’s innings had achieved something far more significant: it disrupted the psychological grip the West Indies had established over India, at least temporarily. His calculated yet aggressive approach dismantled the “Marshall Law” that had seemed unbreakable, proving that India could stand toe-to-toe with the best. Marshall’s bowling figures reflected the impact: a bruised 1 for 105 from 24 overs, illustrating Gavaskar’s remarkable ability to not only withstand pressure but reverse it.

For the West Indies, Gavaskar’s innings was an unforeseen challenge. Their usual tactics—overwhelming batsmen with pace and intimidation—had failed against an opponent who redefined his own style to meet the challenge head-on. 

A Legacy of Defiance

Gavaskar’s 121 in Delhi remains a testament to the adaptability and mental resilience of a batsman often pigeonholed as a technical, defensive player. In facing down Marshall and the West Indies’ fearsome pace battery, Gavaskar demonstrated that he was not confined to a single approach; he could shift tactics when the situation demanded. 

This innings not only elevated Gavaskar’s reputation but also reminded the cricketing world of the power of strategy, grit, and sheer will. It defied the stereotypes attached to him and underscored that even the most consistent players can reinvent themselves when the occasion calls. In breaking free from the constraints of his style, Gavaskar reminded everyone that behind every composed artist lies a fierce competitor, ready to challenge even the most unyielding adversaries.

The innings at Delhi thus endures as more than a memory; it is an essential chapter in the annals of cricket, a reminder that even against the most intimidating odds, tactical courage and skill can rewrite history.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

Vinicius Junior’s Ballon d’Or Snub: The Complex Dynamics of Recognition

The debate around Vinicius Junior’s exclusion from the 2024 Ballon d’Or spotlights a recurring tension in football: how do we measure greatness?

On paper, Vinicius had a nearly flawless season, winning La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, and the Supercopa de Espana with Real Madrid.

Across 49 games for club and country, he amassed 26 goals and 11 assists, often delivering in critical moments—like his two goals in the Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich and a hat-trick against Barcelona in the Supercopa.

However, the accolade ultimately went to Rodri, raising deeper questions about the nature of football’s most coveted individual prize.

Rodri’s triumph embodies a different kind of excellence. While Vinicius captivated fans with his flair and decisive contributions, Rodri’s value lay in his consistency and versatility.

His ability to control games from midfield was pivotal for Manchester City and Spain, with each of City’s defeats coinciding with his absence—a statistic that underscores his importance. Rodri’s performances also extended to the international stage, leading Spain to victory in Euro 2024, which may have swayed the jury’s decision in his favor.

The Ballon d’Or Dilemma: Trophies vs. Impact

The Ballon d’Or often treads a fine line between statistical achievements and narrative arcs. In Vinícius’s case, his exceptional performances were undeniable, but the absence of international success with Brazil may have diminished his candidacy. History shows that individual brilliance does not always guarantee the award—names like Wesley Sneijder (2010), Franck Ribery (2013), and Virgil van Dijk (2019) serve as reminders of how subjective the voting process can be.

Rodri’s victory reflects the committee's occasional preference for players who exemplify collective triumphs. His role in City’s treble-winning season and Spain’s Euro campaign mirrored the weight given to Luka Modrić’s win in 2018, when Croatia’s World Cup run gave him the edge over more flamboyant talents.

Yet, this raises the question: if winning trophies and performing well for the national team or club were paramount, why have players like Jorginho (2021), Wesley Sneijder, David Villa, Diego Forlan, Iniesta in 2010, Forlan in 2011,  Drogba and Iniesta in 2012, Manuel Nuer or Toni Kroos in 2014 or Virgil van Dijk or Alission in  2019e been overlooked in the past?

The Heart vs. the Head

Choosing a Ballon d’Or winner often involves balancing tangible success with the intangible qualities that define a player’s aura.

For Vinicius, 2023-24 was about more than statistics—it was about rising to the occasion in moments that demanded brilliance. His goals saved crucial points in the league and propelled Madrid to European glory, reinforcing his status as one of the most impactful forwards in the world.

But Rodri’s selection reminds us that football’s beauty lies not only in artistry but also in balance, discipline, and control—qualities that are sometimes less glamorous but equally vital.

A Step in a Larger Journey

While missing out on the Ballon d’Or may sting, it is hardly a career-defining setback for Vinicius. His trajectory suggests that he is only beginning to unlock his potential. The next chapter lies in translating his club brilliance into success on the international stage with Brazil. As Neymar pointed out, Vinicius has already exceeded expectations, becoming an icon for both club and country.

Ultimately, the Ballon d’Or’s decision reflects a broader truth: football is a narrative sport. Sometimes, it favours the orchestrator over the virtuoso. For Vinicius, the challenge now is not just to shine for Real Madrid but to lead Brazil to glory—because, in football, legacy is often forged not just in moments but across continents, in both white and yellow shirts.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

Clash of Titans: When Pakistan Stunned the Invincible West Indies in 1986

In the autumn of 1986, the West Indies—a cricketing colossus that had dominated the sport for over a decade—arrived in Pakistan with the swagger of champions. Under the iconic leadership of Viv Richards, the Caribbean side was fresh off back-to-back demolitions of England, enforcing Blackwashes at home and abroad. Their fearsome batting, defined by explosive power-hitting long before the term "Bazball" existed, combined with an army of ruthless fast bowlers, made them the most feared team in world cricket.

Facing them was Pakistan, a team in transition but eager to restore its reputation. With the enigmatic Imran Khan at the helm and the wily Javed Miandad in the middle order, Pakistan carried a mix of youthful exuberance and veteran wisdom. Though talented, Pakistan’s squad was largely untested against a team of West Indies’ calibre. Few gave them a chance. Their loss in the ODI series by 4-1—where Richards blazed 86 off just 39 balls in one match—was a grim prelude. A whitewash in the Test series seemed almost inevitable.

The series opened at Faisalabad, on a pitch known for its variable bounce that would only deteriorate as the game progressed. Imran Khan won the toss and opted to bat, a bold move that seemed to backfire as Pakistan’s top order crumbled under West Indies' pressure. At 37 for five, Pakistan’s worst fears appeared to be coming true. Joel Garner and Michael Holding were unavailable, but Tony Gray, a young fast bowler, seized his chance with a four-wicket haul, dismantling the Pakistani batting lineup. Imran’s gritty 61 helped his side limp to 159, with Salim Malik retiring hurt after suffering a broken arm—an early sign of the physical toll this series would demand.

A Rare Collapse from the Mighty West Indies

However, something unexpected occurred. West Indies, a side known for bulldozing opponents with ruthless efficiency, faltered. Richards, troubled by a stomach issue after indulging in some ill-advised Chinese food, was a shadow of his usual self. Pakistan’s bowling, led by the mercurial Tauseef Ahmed, responded brilliantly. Tauseef spun a web around the West Indian batsmen, removing Richie Richardson and Jeff Dujon with consecutive deliveries. As Wasim Akram cleaned up the tail, West Indies were bowled out for 136, giving Pakistan a slender lead of 23 runs.

What followed was an uncharacteristic fightback from Pakistan. They showed grit and resolve on the third day, with nightwatchman Salim Yousuf grinding out a maiden Test fifty. Mohsin Khan and Javed Miandad offered further resistance, though runs were hard to come by. Wasim Akram, still in the early stages of his career, produced a crucial innings, launching sixes off Malcolm Marshall and Patrick Patterson in an audacious display of counterattack. Even the injured Salim Malik returned to bat with a plastered arm, adding 14 invaluable deliveries to Pakistan’s cause. Pakistan set the West Indies a challenging target of 240 runs, with four sessions remaining.

Qadir's Wizardry and the Humbling of Giants

West Indies, known for chasing down targets with ease, were expected to make light work of the chase. But the fourth innings turned into a nightmare. Abdul Qadir, Pakistan’s master leg-spinner, unleashed a spell of bowling brilliance that dismantled the formidable West Indian lineup.

Desmond Haynes and Gordon Greenidge, the bedrock of West Indies’ batting, were trapped leg-before early. Richards, the kingpin, was gone for a duck on the second ball, a rare sight that stunned fans and players alike. Dujon, Harper, and Richardson followed in quick succession, as Qadir spun the ball like a magician casting spells. Wasim Akram, showing maturity beyond his years, struck at the other end, removing the lower order with precision. West Indies slumped to 43 for nine by the end of the day.

The next morning, Qadir completed his masterpiece by removing Marshall with a sharp return catch, finishing with figures of six for 16. West Indies were bowled out for 53—still their lowest Test total in Pakistan, a nadir in their otherwise illustrious history. Out of the 80 Tests the West Indies played during the 1980s, this was only their eighth loss—a testament to the magnitude of Pakistan’s achievement.

A Glorious Victory Amidst a Legendary Rivalry

The victory at Faisalabad was more than just a win for Pakistan; it was a statement. It showcased their ability to challenge the best in the world and marked the emergence of Wasim Akram as a force to be reckoned with. His all-round performance earned him the Man-of-the-Match award, a fitting accolade for a star in the making.

West Indies, wounded but unbowed, responded with a victory in the second Test to level the series. The third Test ended in a thrilling draw, leaving the series undecided—a fitting outcome for a rivalry that would produce some of the most captivating cricket over the years. Two years later, these two sides clashed again in one of the greatest series ever played. Even in 1990, the battles between Pakistan and West Indies remained the pinnacle of Test cricket, thrilling fans across the globe.

But the golden age of both teams would eventually fade, and with it, the intensity of this storied rivalry. Yet, the memory of Faisalabad in 1986—when Pakistan humbled the invincible West Indies—remains etched in cricketing folklore. It was a victory born from courage, discipline, and a touch of brilliance, a moment when David took down Goliath on a dusty pitch in Pakistan.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar