The World Cup’s Finest with Nektan’s Oliver Wilson

In The World Cup’s Finest we ask various individuals to delve into their own personal history of football’s quadrennial showpiece extravaganza, selecting a number of favourites as well as revealing what is their very first World Cup memory.

Join Oliver Wilson, Director of Client Services at Nektan, as he discusses one of the greatest strikers in World Cup history, which team team had his full support in England’s absence at USA ‘94 and an underdog story from this year’s tournament worthy of a place.

First World Cup memory

22 June 1986 (Hand of God, England v Argentina). I can just about remember the Maradona ‘Hand Of God’ moment in Mexico ’86, at six years old it was the single greatest injustice I’d ever known. Maybe the ‘VAR’ generation will be spared this in future.

Favourite World Cup:

Goal

David Platt (England v Belgium, 1990). David Platt’s spin and volley finish for England against Belgium in Italia ’90. Awesome goal and unbelievable timing just before full time. Bobby Robson’s dancing after the goal was unforgettable as was the spectacular barnet of the despairing goalie – perfect.

Player

Gary Lineker. It’s hard to look past Gary Lineker. Clinical world cup goal scorer, English and a gent to boot! One of the greatest strikers the World Cup has ever seen.

Team

Republic of Ireland, 1994. I was wholeheartedly rooting for Republic of Ireland in the USA ’94 World Cup in England’s absence. They were really plucky, likeable and entertaining. Beating Italy in their opening game courtesy of a Ray Houghton strike was a major shock at the time. They had some quality players in that side too, including a young Roy Keane and Paul McGrath.

Game

South Korea v Germany, 2018. I’ve just seen the 2-0 South Korea win over Germany. That was unbelievable and I can’t think of anything that beats that. Massive kudos to the Koreans for the upset. It’s hard to imagine the Germans not featuring in the knockout stage of a major tournament, which can only enhance England’s chances of bringing football home!

Kit

Brazil. I’d have to go with the Brazil kit, which is iconic and synonymous with the World Cup. The tournament just wouldn’t be the same without those bright yellow jerseys and blue shorts. So many legends have worn the famous kit, including Pelé, Ronaldo and Cafu, who have all lifted the coveted trophy. Of this year’s shirts, Nigeria have produced one of the most eye- catching jerseys in recent years with its retro look.

The World Cup’s Finest is to be a regular feature during the Russia World Cup, profiling a different individual each week day, if you would like to be involved please email [email protected].