Before the World Cup started, people would ask me for my predictions. I always averred that trying to predict results that almost always end up hinging on intangibles is a waste of time, but that if wishes counted for anything, my dream final would be between my two favorite teams, Spain and the Netherlands. So it was written, so it will be done!

Finally, someone different will hoist the trophy for a change, and I honestly will be happy whichever of them wins, so I can just truly enjoy the game with no anxiety. Other than, of course, fretting over how much money I could have made betting on this scenario.