It was a few hours bus journey from Bangkok to reach Nakhon Ratchasima, Korat Chatchai Hall, where Junpiter Futbol would be catching game number 3 and 4, Libya playing against Portugal and Brazil taking on Japan respectively.
And to be honest, there wasn’t much fanfare when we first arrived. We were expecting some sort of carnival going on with loud thumping music at the venue but the organizer could have focused all their attention to the host, Thailand’s opening game against Costa Rica at Bangkok, Indoor Stadium Huamark where they won 3-1.
Although the first game at Korat Chatchai Hall was Libya playing against Portugal, the crowd packing at the venue waiting anxiously were majority the supporters from the Land of Rising Sun, Japan! Libya-Portugal’s game was the most technical and interesting to watch, but it was World Champion vs Asia Champsion’ game that was the game of the evening!
Portugal’s number-10, Japan’s F-League, Nagoya Oceans player, Ricardinho, was simply the most oustanding player of the evening. He was pulling all the strings to lead the attacking and nearly scoring an unbelievable “kangaroo-hop” goal with his back against the goal! Libya team struggled to keep up with Portuguese’s attack and eventually lost their opening game 1-5.
Just before the first game ended at Korat Chatchai Hall, the venue has already turned into a mini Blue Heaven! Although the Japanese had some argument with the organizer on agreeing where the Ultra-Nippon could put up their various blue banners, eventually it was a happy ending for the supporters. The moment the Japanese team walked ontp the court for warming up, the cheering and singing never stopped. And you know, you were at the right game with right atmosphere.
From the jersey number worn by the Japanese supporters and banners in the stadium, it seems like everyone was there for only one reason – King Kazu! And yes, 45 years old King Kazu became the oldest player in history to play in a Futsal World Cup. His World Cup debut last evening also also fulfilled his dream of playing in a World Cup when he was abruptly left out of the squad for France 1998. To be frank, his movement on the court showed his obvious age but his experience playing at the top level and especially playing in front of big crowd which certainly benefited the rest of his much younger teammates. At one point, Kazu even attempted a multiple crossovers to the crowd’s delight.
On the other end of the court, the current World Champion, Brazil, was another class totally. Their overall team movement, their technical ability, possessional and final touches explained why they are the current World Champion. Final score was Brazil 4 Japan 1. Compared to the last edition’s score of Brazil beating 12-1! This could be a great improvement for Japanese football. However in all fairness, Brazil’s number-12 Falcao, is nursing an injury and that limited his playing time on the court. That could be a blessing for Japan too.
Great games at Korat Chatchai Hall on Thursday. Stay tune for more photos and report for games.
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