Dear Editor,
Germany’s captain Philipp Lahm led from in front marshalling his forces en route to capturing the FIFA 2014 World Cup, after defeating finalist Argentina by a 1-0 margin in 113th minute of extra time, compliments of a Mario Götze, perfectly executed half volley. Lahm’s defensive exploits as a holding midfielder, in the initial stages aided by his needle-threading offensive passes which were still evident in his accustomed role of right-back, definitely made him the most accomplished, technically correct player of the 2014 World Cup. Now in his third appearance, I ask, what more must the individual do to deserve the ultimate accolade? Blocked shot(s) when it mattered most and various qualities place him in the league of German legends. Franz Beckenbauer, Lothar Matthäus, Jürgen Klinsmann, Oliver Bierhoff, Oliver Kahn, Michael Ballack and the recently retired Miroslav Klose readily come to mind.
With 2014 being Lahm’s third World Cup, no other player in the modern era has displayed with such dynamism and finesse as a defender. He has the perfect script, first playing as left-back, then right-back, then holding mid-fielder, and after that right-back again. Once again, what more can the world ask for, to become a Golden Ball winner? Who were the selectors? Which tournament were they watching? When did they wake up? It is downright tomfoolery with a dash of dishonesty.
Finally, of the four semifinalists, sadly, given the host nation’s deviation from the beautiful samba style, which was replaced with rough-house tactics, Brazil offers no candidate.
The Netherlands’ Arjen Robben, with his brilliant solo efforts, constant attacks of the penalty area, goal bound and with 4 goals to his credit remains a standout. Zabaleta and Macherano of Argentina for their defensive and midfield exploits respectively are virtual standouts ahead of Messi. As such it comes as no surprise that FIFA’s President, Sepp Blatter has questioned the award. And Maradona, an Argentina legend, publicly advocated that Messi didn’t deserve it.
In the final analysis I express my public attachment as a supporter of Germany on the world stage for the last 24 years. They won the Golden Glove; they are the leading all time World Cup goal scorer; they have the first substitute to score a winning goal in a World Cup final; they are the first European team to win a final in South America; and they secured the largest semifinal victory. All of this was achieved under the astute leadership of Captain Philipp Lahm, who featured in every match unsubstituted, and who will remain my Golden Ball winner.
As for the last poster boy, Lionel Messi, he should give the underserved trophy to one of his more accomplished team-mates. Why did he hide in the finals, despite not being marked? And last but not least, in the dying seconds of the match with aching legs, absent-minded and tired how did he honestly believe he had it in his arsenal to beat the world’s best goalkeeper at a distance of 30 metres, rather than curl it in the 6 metre area for attacking options and a possible goal-scoring opportunity? Messi’s free kick can be equated with a goal-kick that went skyward, much to the dismay of his well-wishers and supporters.
Yours faithfully,
Lester Sealey
