poptimists | CZECH MATE

The Pop World Cup Final
Portugal 2 Czech Republic 3 (aet: 2-2 in normal time)

A fairytale ending for the Pop World Cup as

mostlyconnect's team triumphed in an engrossing final. After starting brightly and taking the lead while playing textbook possession football, the Czechs' relative lack of flair began to tell, and Portugal dominated over the game, first equalising and then pulling ahead. The Czechs fumbled an equaliser to force extra time, but Portugal still looked the likelier winners. In extra time though, the Czechs continued to push bodies into the box and Portugal were made to rue a series of fluffed chances when they conceded a late winner.

Dry your eyes mate...

There was little to separate the two sides and when the disappointment has faded and the tears have dried

thebopkids will be justly proud of his side's efforts. But the honours go to the indomitable Czechs. "This is an incredible day for our country," said one overjoyed fan, "We have never been known for pop music but now we have proved our nation is the best in the world."

mostlyconnect will be given the freedom of every jazz club in Prague and an invitation to jam with Vaclav Havel will surely also be forthcoming. The trophy will be presented on Friday.

Third Place Match
Iran 2 France 1

Hard-battling Iran have lit up the tournament with some of their displays and confirmed their third-place status with an emphatic win over a French team who looked like they would rather be elsewhere. For its few attendees this match was rich in entertainment, and the services of Iranian team's outspoken manager

dubdobdee will surely be in demand for future tournaments.

Final Results

Czech Republic - 57 points (average 3.56)
Portugal - 55 points (average 3.44)

Iran - 32 points (average 3.56)
France - 28 points (average 3.11)

So that's it for the Pop World Cup. Thankyou very much to everyone who participated, voted, and commented, and we'll see you for Europop 2008, no doubt!