Typing this out just before Croatia kick off against Brazil in the quarterfinals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

There’ve been so many upsets already at this edition of the tournament but the final 8 look very solid. Here are my quick thoughts on each and who I see could go on to win this.

Morocco had a really tough group and got a great draw against Croatia, stunned Belgium and beat Spain on penalties to be here. Portugal are in fine form however, and seem to be capable with or without Ronaldo.

France should have no problem against England — Mbappe, Griezmann, Dembele, Giroud, Lloris and others are too much for any team to handle.

Croatia have the knack of grinding out results and have one of the more experienced sides in the tournament. Brazil are always favourites, but this Brazil squad don’t look like they can go all the way.

Finally, my beloved Netherlands! They had an easy group and smooth sailing so far but Argentina will be the first real test. But you can’t underestimate Louis van Gaal’s tactics — he probably has a plan for Messi. Plus, Cody Gakpo is in great form! They may beat Argentina but I don’t see them going further than that.

I predict a Brazil vs France final with France eventually winning it.

Till then, it’s time to bring out those Oranje jerseys.

This isn’t me writing into the void.
This isn’t me writing for myself.
Or for them.

This is for you, VMF.

You’re 33 today. And we’ve known each other since we were 16, which means we’ve already spent more years together than apart! — that thought never ceases to amaze me.

How I bless the day you were born! You are one in the universe, but to me you are my universe.

You’re the best friend I could ask for. I truly mean it. Who knew you’d influence the course of my life to such a degree? Even all those years ago, you understood me like no one ever could. You knew every little thing about me — the best parts, but also the flaws and imperfections that I hid from everyone else.

I was a nobody and you saw me for the man I could become. Your support and encouragement meant everything. Even back then, you understood what it meant to love unconditionally. I had nothing to offer but promises, and though we were young, I knew we were meant to be together forever.

And I now I get to wake up each morning next to you. To get breakfast with you. You’ve given me a home and three beautiful girls, and no two days are ever the same! Every mundane moment is magical with you. What else could I ask for?

I love how you give without ever counting the cost to yourself. Nothing is too troublesome. You’re never too tired. You labor so patiently and you never look back once your hands are on the plough. This home is just a house without you.

I have a verse for you, and it is also my prayer for you today.

A good wife who can find?
She is far more precious than jewels.
The heart of her husband trusts in her,
and he will have no lack of gain.

She rises while it is yet night
and provides food for her household
and tasks for her maidens.
She considers a field and buys it;
with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.

She opens her hand to the poor,
and reaches out her hands to the needy.
She is not afraid of snow for her household,
for all her household are clothed in scarlet.

Strength and dignity are her clothing,
and she laughs at the time to come.
She opens her mouth with wisdom,
and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.

Her children rise up and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
​“Many women have done excellently,
but you surpass them all.”

Know that you are loved immensely! You are a living blessing — one I intend to never take for granted.

2020 made me realise I have so much to be thankful for. Much of the year was spent indoors with my family; and yet it seems we accomplished so much together, and as individuals.

In contrast, I’ve heard so many stories from folks I personally know, and it’s easy to see the year has not been kind to so many. So much physical suffering, financial hardship, emotional trauma and loss of human life — I realise how privileged I am just to be alive and healthy.

I am praying that the coming year brings healing, peace and a sense of normalcy to the world as quickly as possible. That’s all we can ask for, I guess.