Honda's Performance - Real Madrid Effect???

Keisuke Honda's performance against Denmark can probably be highlighted as the single best individual performance. His speed, his flair, his skills and his accuracy baffled lackluster Danes. His first goal is probably the best free-kick we have seen in this world cup so far. Well, I don't remember any other straight goal from a direct free-kick (except the next one scored by Yashuito Endo). In fact, for first seventy five minutes Honda showed such a high level of intensity that in last fifteen minutes, he clearly looked tired and gradually losing steam. But precisely when it felt that Denmark was on the verge of breaking loose and were in mood of trying everything to snatch an improbable win, Honda reappeared and created another fantastic goal and sentenced the game. In fact, it was difficult to believe whether it was Honda's performance which inspired entire Japanese team to come up with one of the best team performances of the tournament or it was sheer strong motivation of Japanese team that helped Honda perform at his best. 

However, if one is to believe rumors in Japanese press, Honda's performance may have been motivated by Real Madrid scouts present in the stadium. As mentioned by Japanese blogger Kentaro Matsuura, Real Madrid scouts were present in the stadium to observe Honda's performance. After signs that Kaká might go for an operation after World Cup and may be absent from Mou´s outfit in the first half of the next year, it's understandable that Real would look for a dependable and not so costly striker-winger.

Well, whatever the reason be. Japan played wonderful football last night and if this is the way they keep playing we are assured of a great spectacle in the pre-quarter final when they face impressive Paraguay.

(Photo Courtsey : The Stuff, New Zealand)