History was on their side: the strategy of shock and awe was irresistible. They’ve made their mark on a politically volatile region. There were some losses, there were brief moments of doubt throughout the campaign, but, under the leadership of the B-Man, whose abilities many foolishly doubted, they finally turned out to have the wealth and the firepower, the sheer capability, to carry off what was, most people would agree, a foregone conclusion. They had millions of people all over the world urging them on to triumph, and duly they triumphed. Yes, Real Madrid (oops) has won the Spanish league once again. Just in case the soccer romantics were getting any big ideas. Atlético did their concerted best to prevent it happening, by losing 3-0 to San Sebastian’s Real Sociedad, but their efforts were all in vain. Don’t get me wrong. I enjoy watching Ronaldo, Zidane, Raúl and the rest as much as any football fan. But please, not in the same team. P.S. Bush and del Bosque: what is it about people whose surnames have to do with vegetation? Although del Bosque, Spanish soccer being what it is, is already on the way out.
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