Futebol, as they call it, is Jogo Bonito or the beautiful game for them. Brazil last hosted the World Cup back in 1950 when an inspired Uruguay defeated Brazil with scoreline 2-1 in the decider. 64 years later, Brazil is again the destination of the biggest carnival in the world as the host of FIFA World Cup 2014.

As I write this, we have already witnessed some outstanding football in the tournament. While Netherlands humbled the hot favorites Spain in an emphatic manner with scoreline 5-1, it was lowly rated Costa Rica who threw caution to the winds when they outplayed a fancied Uruguay in a terrific display of coordination and skills. Flying header from the Dutch striker Robin Van Parsie, speed and control of Arjen Robben, inspiring and evergreen Pirlo, young English players Stirling and Sturridge, troubled maverick Balotelli, exciting Joel Campbell and sharp Neymar - these have already made their mark in the first few days of tournament. This World Cup appears to be different from the earlier once as  it has been raining goals in each and every encounter. Perhaps we are watching some of the best and most aggressive football in quite some time.

A football World Cup is such a wonderful event, isn't it? Beyond doubt, it is the biggest stage where best players represent their nation and play as hard as they can to win the coveted trophy. It is certainly not easy; even the biggest stars fail to make a mark in this tournament. While Lionel Messi is the best footballer in the world, he is still looking to make an impact in the tournament. Passion for the game reaches an all time high in both the players and the fans. Lowly ranked teams strive to do extremely well against the giants of the game. The urge to witness best football action, the willingness to support and cheer for the favorite team and the oohs and aahhs in key moments of the games unifies people across the globe. 

Are we Indians an outsider to the game of football? I have seen people who question our interest and involvement in football when World Cup arrives. However the same group of people cheer loud while watching a good game of Cricket between two different nations. Well, everyone has his own interest and they can have their own reservations. I believe that we can never be an outsider to the most appreciated sport on the planet. Football fans share a universal language that cuts across various cultures, civilizations and personalities.  Vince Lombardi once said-

As World Cup enters second week, I am looking forward to much more scintillating action and edge of the seat thrill. It is carnival time and I am all in. Are you?