World Cup fever

Well, the World Cup is already halfway through and I must say there are a lot of upsets. The All Whites prove that population doesn't count for much and despite having a smaller population than Singapore, made it to the World Cup. That wasn't all as they went on to score 2 precious points and taking the scalp of world champions Italy! Unbelievable I must say. France succumbed to their internal strife, slumping out of the World Cup amid the controversy and drama. The host South Africa bowed out of the World Cup despite being level on points with the second-placed Mexico. It was a pity but there was no helping it. The traditional African horns are the only legacy left behind. Spain faced the upset of the competition, losing to a plucky Swiss side, coached by an experienced German coach. A disappointing game where most of their star players went missing. Hopefully, they would improve and make it to the last 16. Brazil, Argentina, and the Netherlands strode easily to the last 16 where stiffer competition awaits. South Korea made sure the Asians are well-represented by drawing with Nigeria and cementing their place in the last 16. A World Cup which began with a drought of goals could very well end in rivulets of them. The world wait with bated breath...

World Cup in Singapore

Well, there are still people who do subscribe to our two World Cup carriers. In my opinion, the price is just exorbitant. I'm not sure it's around $1 dollar a match since there are concurrent matches. (unless you own 2 TVs and put them side-by-side) There are alternatives of course. McDonalds, Community Clubs, some pubs, bars etc. have opened their doors to patrons and fans alike. While some prefer the comaraderie found in these public places, I prefer to watch in the comforts of home. When it comes to the World Cup, I'm pretty picky on what matches to watch. As a result, it would not be worth my while to subscribe to the package.

On another note, and this is probably old news, I believe the admnistrator of your Internet Service Provider has started blocking online streaming of WC matches. Online streaming belong to one of those grey areas threading between legal to watch and illegal. The subject was finally put to rest by the ISP. I'm sure there will be some public outrage and questions on privacy would be raised. Personally, I'll be waiting for Spain in the semi-finals shown on our beloved free-to-air channels! :-)

Knowledge

Knowledge is a weird thing. We all work hard in order to obtain it. Sometimes, it just comes knocking on your door even when you did not ask for it. Too much of it can actually be detrimental (see game theory). Too little will become a roadblock to your path. Even the lack of knowledge is a kind of knowledge by itself. At least you do know which areas you are lacking! This beats the person who doesn't even know what he or she is lacking. A populist saying: Ignorance is bliss. In my opinion, this is the exception rather than the norm. What do you all think? :-)