U-20 World Cup A Truly Beautiful Event

Ok, I confess I've been writing a lot about soccer and the U-20 World Cup lately, but to be honest with you, of all the sporting events I have covered or been witness to, FIFA's version of the World Junior Hockey tournament has been nothing short of spectacular.

With the Swangard Stadium leg over, I present you with some thoughts and observations:

- Uruguay's Edinson Cavani is one heck of a footballer.

- Of all the people that entered Swangard during Group play, Uruguay and Scottish fans were the most festive. It's a shame the two teams didn't play against one another. That would've been some kind of party.

- Brazil and Spain's thrilling 4-2 extra time affair is something I will be telling my grandchildren about--what a game! I doubt the final will be this entertaining.

- Who says soccer isn't alive and well in Canada and Vancouver for that matter? Every game at Swangard Stadium was sold right out.

- Brazil goalkeeper Cassio should do a Bo Jackson and play two sports--soccer and basketball. At only 20 years of age he stands at close to 6'5".

- Spain's Diego Capel is a speed demon.

- Watch out for Spain, they have twice come back from two-goal deficits and are riding high after knocking out Brazil.

- I wish Jordan would've fared better. They showed a lot of heart.

- Soccer truly is a "beautiful game".

Photo by Karl Yu