Grecians centre-half on his World Cup memories
Pat Baldwin becomes the second player to talk us through his memories of the World Cup down the years.
First World Cup you watched?
I have very vague memories of the 1990 World Cup when Gazza cried in the semi-final. He was absolutely superb the whole tournament.
First World Cup final you watched?
That was the 94 final where Brazil won on penalties. Roberto Baggio with his little ponytail missed the last penalty. It was a shame as he was incredible that tournament.
First World Cup memory?
The ‘90 World Cup – same as above. And swapping stickers with my mates as an 8 year old.
Ever been to an international tournament/match?
No, funnily enough.
Did you collect World Cup stickers? Who did you always have in swap?
I did as a kid. I think it was the ‘94 World Cup where I seemed to have lots of spare Saudi Arabian players.
Favourite World Cup song?
World in Motion. John Barnes rap – pure genius.
All-time World Cup XI?
Barthez, Cafu, Sammer, Stam, Cole, C. Ronaldo, Gascoigne, Vieira, Rivaldo, Zidane, Ronaldo.
Which was your favourite World Cup match?
‘94 World Cup final. Brazil’s team was incredible. I was totally in love with football – I lived and breathed it.
How far will England get?
I think England will be extremely lucky to get out of the group – but I think, with expectations so low, that will give the players the freedom to enjoy it so you never know what can happen.
Who would you support other than England?
Probably the Italians just because I love watching them defend. They are defensive artists.
Who else should Roy Hodgson have taken?
To be honest, I think he got the squad selection spot on.
Which of your City teammates would ‘do a job’ for England?
With the way England play, on the counter-attack with pace, Dave Wheeler for very obvious reasons.
Which of your City teammates plays most like a Brazilian?
Liam Sercombe.
Who do you think will win the Golden Boot (top goalscorer)?
Cristiano Ronaldo.
Who do you think will win the Golden Ball (best player)?
Neymar.
Which country will be the flop of the tournament?
England.
Which country will be the dark-horse/over-achiever?
Belgium.
Who do you think will win it (and why)?
I think Brazil might just because it’s on home soil and they will be best suited to the conditions. I think it will be two South American teams in the final.
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