Memorable moments

Mutual appreciation in Cairo: Hungary should be in no doubt about their popularity with the people of Egypt. Emerging from the tunnel ahead of Friday’s third-place match, the Hungarian substitutes unveiled a banner reading ‘Thank you Egypt’ – and duly received a thunderous reception from the fans gathered at the Cairo International Stadium. And a […]

Mutual appreciation in Cairo:

Hungary should be in no doubt about their popularity with the people of Egypt. Emerging from the tunnel ahead of Friday’s third-place match, the Hungarian substitutes unveiled a banner reading ‘Thank you Egypt’ – and duly received a thunderous reception from the fans gathered at the Cairo International Stadium. And a little over an hour and a half later, they and their victorious team-mates were soaking up the applause once more as they completed a valedictory lap of honour.

Fair play and friendship:

Seconds after seeing Peter Gulacsi repel Carlos Hernandez’s decisive penalty kick, Hungary coach Sandor Egervari made a beeline for the unfortunate midfielder to offer him his commiserations. At the same time Egervari’s opposite number Ronald Gonzalez took the opportunity to congratulate the Europeans’ match-winning gloveman. Breaking off from his side’s victory lap of honour, the young Liverpool goalkeeper then shared a tearful embrace with his team-mate and close friend, Marko Futacs, who was unable to join in the celebrations after suffering a first-half injury.

Who are you then?

Sellas Tetteh had a crafty trick up his sleeve in the build-up to the final. The Ghana coach sent his three goalkeepers out on to the pitch to perform identical pre-match warm-ups wearing matching No22 shirts, despite the fact only 21 players are allowed in each squad. Opponents Brazil could have been forgiven for feeling a little confused as to which of the shot-stopping trio would eventually be donning the gloves, which might explain the problems they had in getting the better of chosen custodian Daniel Agyei in the shootout.