Yesterday’s 4-0 thrashing of Santos was a result not many people were expecting, especially after their amazing semi final victory over Kashiwa Reysol. Many including myself were expecting Santos to put up a stiff fight if not go all the way.
However, once again Lionel Messi was the hero for the Catalans as he scored a brace to see the European champions add yet another trophy to their cabinet. Messi went on to pick up the Adidas Golden Ball as well as the Toyota award for being the best player in the tournament.
It was not all gloom for Neymar and Santos as the teen sensation picked up the Bronze Ball for being the tournament’s third best player. Speaking to the press after the match, Neymar was quoted as saying that it was impossible to beat Barcelona.
“It’s impossible to stop Barcelona, but we are the second-best team in the world and for us that is a great reward,” Neymar said.
Adding his voice to those paying glowing tribute to Barcelona was Santos coach Muricy Ramalho. The tactician was quoted as saying that losing 4-0 to Barcelona was no disgrace at all.
“Barcelona are the greatest team in the world,” he said.
“No team can live with them. They’re unbeatable at the moment. Losing 4-0 to them is no disgrace.”
Well, to be honest, it was a big disgrace to lose by such a huge margin especially after the expectation many had about the match. The loss only paints a bad picture of Santos and the Brazilian league in general.
Brazil might produce some of the best players in the world, but they cannot compete with the tactical experience and technical know of the big European clubs.
It was no doubt a learning experience for Santos and though Messi emerged as the best player once again, only time will prove how much longer he can continue defend that title.
At only 19, Neymar still has a lot to learn, however, the loss show not be read as a lack of talent on his part.
Photo Credit © Santos Futebol Clube