THE FUTURE IS ORANGE
The untimely passing of Paul the Octopus in 2010 left a significant gap in the realm of World Cup predictions. Finding a successor to the legendary cephalopod proved challenging, as other contenders like Leon the Porcupine, Anton the Tamarin, and Petty the Pygmy Hippopotamus failed to impress. The situation worsened in 2018 when a new octopus, named Rabio, met an unfortunate fate at the hands of a Japanese fisherman, despite accurately predicting all of Japan’s group stage matches.
Among the contenders during the 2010 World Cup, Mani the Parakeet stood out, achieving a perfect record in the quarter-finals before faltering in the final by choosing the Netherlands over Spain. The Dutch have historically faced disappointment in their quest for World Cup glory, finishing as runners-up in 1974, 1978, and 2010. However, hope is rekindled as they aim for victory in 2026.
Joachim Klement, a German mathematician, may not be a household name, but he has garnered attention for his predictive prowess. By analyzing factors such as GDP per capita, population, football culture, FIFA rankings, and a bit of luck, Klement’s formula has forecasted the Netherlands as the likely champions for the upcoming tournament. His prior predictions accurately identified Germany in 2014, France in 2018, and Argentina in 2022—three consecutive winners. Paul, watching from his Octopus Garden in the sky, would undoubtedly nod in approval.
Initially, Klement’s prediction for the Netherlands generated a lukewarm response on social media. Concerns about their defense, the lack of a world-class striker, and recent struggles in the Eredivisie overshadowed Dutch football’s legacy. Nevertheless, the Netherlands has surprised critics, currently leading their group with seven points and ten goals scored. If Brian Brobbey, who has netted three goals so far, emerges as the tournament’s top scorer, it might lead to an amusing revelation that a Peruvian ocelot had predicted his success.
LIVE ON BIG WEBSITE
Six matches are scheduled to further engage GWC fans, starting with Scott Murray’s live report on France versus Norway, along with Senegal facing Iraq, both concluding Group I at 4pm EDT/9pm BST. Meanwhile, Group H will see Cape Verde take on Saudi Arabia, overseen by Beau Dure, and Tom Lutz will cover the match between Spain and Uruguay, both kicking off at 8pm EDT/1am BST. Additionally, Group G’s Pride match in Seattle will feature Egypt against Iran, with Jonathan Howcroft in charge, while Sam Lewis will report on New Zealand’s clash with Belgium, both starting at 11pm EDT/5am BST.
ON THE BALL
The Big Website app now includes a special edition of On the Ball for the GWC. On the Ball: World Stage challenges users to identify the World Cup player in five attempts, providing a fun and engaging experience. There are also plenty of other entertaining puzzles available to keep you occupied.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“It couldn’t have been any clearer for him. He’s obviously thinking about something else, bless him. I love him at the moment, but dear me”“He got a little scolding from me there. He was a little frustrated at the end of the match and you can understand that now,”
– Graham Potter discusses Anthony Elanga’s collapse on the field after Sweden’s 1-1 draw with Japan, where the winger believed his team had failed to qualify.added Alexander Isak.
Football Weekly Live events are on the horizon! Fans can catch Max Rushden, Barry Glendenning, and other prominent pod squad members in Dublin on September 1 or in London on September 9. Additionally, the sold-out Football Weekly: Live in New York City on July 16 still offers livestream tickets.
FOOTBALL DAILY LETTERS
‘writing themselves into the history books’
– Michael Hill.
‘entered themselves at the datacentre’
– Mike Walsh.
Letters can be sent to the.boss@. Today’s prizeless letter of the day is … Michael Hill. Terms and conditions for our competitions, when we run them, are here.
Ecstasy for Ecuador and a draw puts Australia through – it’s the latest episode of World Cup Daily.
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