World Cup Corner

For all you North American football… I mean soccer fans… this summer marks a major tournament to be played in Canada. 600,000 tickets have already been presold. In fact, by all current calculations, The U-20 finals will become the single biggest sporting event in the history of Canada.

“The hunger for tickets and growing anticipation truly demonstrates the love of the beautiful game in Canada,” said FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter. “Canadians know they are in for a treat this summer and that nothing but spectacular football will be on display when the world’s top youngsters battle for the crown of becoming world champion.”

Who are some of the young bright stars to look out for? I for one, will play close attention to David Edgar of Canada. Simply because he plays for my favorite team, Newcastle United. He`s play a few games this year for the Magpies, and has struck me as being a very raw, but intelligent and composed defender. The South American powerhouses of Argentina and Brazil will no doubt produce some future world class players, some of which are held in high regard at the moment. For example, Lucas of Brazil. This year he inspired Gremio to the Copa Libertadores qualification on their return to the Brazilian top flight, , awarded the Brazillian league’s top performer award, became the youngest ever recipient of Placar Magazine’s Golden Ball and earned a call-up to the senior squad. Not bad for a 20 year old. Lucas is hailed as a player of exceptional potential in Brazil and a near future move to Europe is his most probable destination.