Blitzbokke down Aussies, march into semis
RIO DE JANEIRO: The Brazilians have a word for something that is easy on the eye – gostoso!
It can be for food, for fashion and, naturally, what one may encounter on a hot day on Copacabana.
Now, though, the Olympics – and the people of Brazil – have found a new pastime that is rather “gostoso” too.
Sevens rugby has given them something fresh, fluid and frenetic to look at. The games come thick and fast, and upsets are a happy norm in the narrative.
And, most importantly, the Sevens platform has given the Rio Olympic hosts yet another stage to square off against their bitter rivals, Argentina.
The animosity between the two is deeply personal.
It’s rooted in football but, as Fabiano, a lawyer from downtown Rio, explained in the fan park, over a cerveja (beer) and blaring music, even a handkerchief-folding contest between the two nations could end in war.
Yesterday the biggest match of the Sevens played out at 1pm in the Deodoro Stadium.
The medal matches may only be later today, but in the minds of the South American foes, the Pool D clash was a World Cup Final.
The atmosphere before the match was one you may find in a football cup final. The banter, thankfully, was more family-friendly than would be the case if Messi and Neymar had been on the field, but the Argentinian goading of the locals almost became too much.
Los Pumas prevailed 26-0. Of course they did. Rugby has been part of their heritage for a lot longer, while Brazil are playing catch-up. But the regularity of upsets means the Brazilians will get one over them, and soon.
That’s what the Sevens have brought to the International Olympic Committee table. A veritable feast of canapé battles, and a fantastic way to introduce the game of rugby to a wider audience.
It’s simple, scintillating and brings colour to an occasion that already has plenty of it.
The world of rugby has stumbled upon a terrific opportunity here, and they are encouraging it fully.
Former French international assassin Sergio Betsen was in the crowd yesterday, watching the Brazil-Argentina match. “This is nuts! Is this a football stadium?” he beamed.
It’s easy to find the common thread between Sevens and the Five Rings.
The party atmosphere, the paella of cultures and, most importantly, the athleticism and skill on the field is entertainment gold. By all accounts, it is here to stay. Everyone likes a bit of gostoso.