Roxroy’s faith in Argentina never faltered

Prior to the start of the World Cup, I was so certain that, having gone 36 games without losing, Argentina would easily dispatch Saudi Arabia in their opening game.

But boy oh boy, was I in for a most unpleasant surprise. The Saudis, ranked 51st by FIFA, registered a famous 2-1 win over the South American giants to leave the world in shock.

The defeat was a very painful pill for me to swallow, especially seeing that I got up around 4:30 that morning on November 22 to watch the game live at a nearby sports bar. I also had to face all of my friends, co-workers and my Cheers To The Cup co-host Shanel Lemmie, who made sure to rub salt in the wound by redesigning my work station in the aftermath of the game.

But I never lost faith in Argentina. After all, they had Lionel Messi who has been in form and playing with a sense of purpose.

I must admit, though, that in the second game against Mexico, I was nervous during the first half when Argentina were struggling to break down the Concacaf heavyweights. But I recalled exploding into sheer pandemonium when the diminutive Messi scored in the 64th minute from a Di Maria assist to put Argentina ahead. From there, Argentina getting to the finals was a mere formality. After the Albiceleste progressed to the round of 16, I immediately started to dream of a clash with Lemmie's Brazil in the semi-final.

I didn't get what I was hoping for, but if there was a consolation, it would be watching Croatia defeat Brazil in the quarter-finals to send Lemmie into a state of depression.

I have also met some wonderful people along the way with this World Cup coverage. There is Audley Spence, the proprietor of Sonia's Place on the Terrace, who boldly declared that "If Brazil win mi mother is a man" during the opening game of the World Cup between Qatar and Ecuador.

Then there is Kadeen Richards, or 'Guzzu Boss', who I think is the most energetic Argentina supporter in Jamaica. Her attempt to 'guzzu' Brazil during their match against Serbia will always resonate with me.

Then, of course, the people of Trench Town, the unofficial centre for Brazil supporters in Jamaica. To experience the customary march along Collie Smith Drive following a Brazil victory is simply extraordinary.

I am drained, physically. But this past month is certainly one of the most entertaining four weeks of my life although I cannot promise anyone that I would do it all again if given the chance.