The goals has been scored, the games played and well the tears shed, but with all that said — the world has a new soccer empire as Germany was crowned king of the sport at the Maracana Stadium in Brazil.
But despite the cheers, jeers, goals and passes, it was a World Cup for the books. It was the tournament that taught us how hard work, diligence and discipline pay off as demonstrated by a stoic, yet precise Germany. How despite having the qualities of a champion, sometimes you can’t have it all — like in the case of Argentina’s Lionel Messi and of course who could forget the ‘Mineraoazo’ that left a confused and shocked host nation in tears as their team was destroyed 7-1 by Germany.
This tournament also gave us incredible Latin American teams like Colombia with James Rodriguez celebrating every one of his six goals with the beats of salsa and Costa Rica, whose ‘Pura Vida’ attitude, incredible game tactics and goal keeper made history.
Alas, all good things do come to an end and now its time for the in-depth analysis of its main players and of course, with that all said, I bid adieu to Brazil and it’s beautiful boys on the field. Below are my 11 MVP picks for its incredible style, good looks and well, OK incredible play ability…
Do tell and do share, who was your favorite World Cup Beau? Sad the beautiful game is over or somewhat relieved? I still wonder what I will be doing during my free time, but good thing there is ESPN Deportes to keep me entertained and many upcoming games worth watching.
Until 2018 in Russia!
Ryzenberg On, is Signing Off
Manuel Neuer (Germany): This dreamy goalkeeper has style, gorgeous and incredible game on and off the field. He also stole the show during the finals with many passes and stoppages, but it’s his boyish grace to caught my attention.
Robin Van Persie (Holland): The dutch not only delivered with their style and fast game, but their roster has Van Persie, whose hair is rather perfect and I even wondered how long it took him to coif his locks.
Gerard Pique (Spain): Shakira’s baby daddy is a cutie as I’ve been a fan of his for many years. The only bummer about ‘La Furia’ during this World Cup was its early exit, since they were eliminated during the group stage.
Gonzalo Higuain (Argentina): ‘La Pipa’ not only gave great soccer, he also scored one decisive goal during Belgium in the Quarterfinals. He also has piercing green eyes and irresistible dimples, so yeah pretty much a good package.
Patrice Evra (France): An instrumental man for ‘Le Bleu’ who brings plenty of swagger to the game. And in civilian clothes he also looks oh so ‘magnifique!’
Neymar Jr. (Brazil): Though I am going to be honest — when I first saw him I wasn’t impressed, but I was won by his smile, charisma and exotic looks. Oh yeah and those sparkly green eyes! Oh Neymar.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal): Been on my top of hotties list for years and no, I don’t feel the need to justify it. I know he is sometimes a controversial figure, but his abs make up for it! Also, please check out this uber steamy Vogue España spread with his GF Irina Shayk.
Olivier Giroud (France): Dubbed by many as the hottest ‘footballer,’ At 6 foot 4 inches he brings a lot of strength, physical prowess and gorgeous genes to the game. Want some more of this garçon? Be sure to catch him play in the English Premier League for Arsenal.
James Rodriguez (Colombia): Colombia’s sweetheart won the hearts of fans worldwide. This 23-year-old striker not only delivered some of the greatest passes and goals for the tourney, he also celebrated with plenty of character by doing some fun salsa moves with his teammates. Can’t wait to see what this soccer ingenue brings to the table during the next few years.
Claudio Marchisio (Italy): I mean the eyes — you have me at the eyes! Like Spain, the Azurris also left rather early, but I still had to include Claudio, since I’ve been a big fan for a bit. Check out this gem I found from 2006 showing Claudio in his skivvies for Dolce & Gabbana! Molto Bellezza.
Kyle Beckerman (USA): There is something so cute and simple about Beckerman, and though I am not a huge fan of dreadlocks, it just works! Plus, he seems to smile a lot and that’s always a plus on my book.