Liverpool, World Cup Blog
The Kid grows up
Fernando Torres, though just 22, has long been touted as the saviour of the Spanish national side. Until now, his performances for his country have hinted at some of the vast potential he has shown for club Athletico Madrid, but fans have generally been disappointed – especially at Euro 2004. However, in fairness to Torres, [...]
Fernando Torres, though just 22, has long been touted as the saviour of the Spanish national side.
Until now, his performances for his country have hinted at some of the vast potential he has shown for club Athletico Madrid, but fans have generally been disappointed – especially at Euro 2004. However, in fairness to Torres, he has been burdened by unrealistic expectations ever since scoring on his Athletico debut as a 17-year-old.
Yet now ‘El Nino’ (The Kid) seems ready to make the jump from the youthful promise enjoyed by so many, to becoming one of the consistent goalscorers so conspicuous by their absence in the international game. So far in this World Cup, Torres has been in terrific form, scoring three goals in just two games, illustrating the wide-ranging talents of the man.
His goal against Ukraine showcased Torres’ all-round play and ability to combine with his team-mates; not only is Torres a goalscorer, but he is a threat even when not in the box. Torres’ decisive first against Tunisia was seemingly fairly simple, coming after a mistake by the keeper. But to keep your composure over such a period of time – especially when your side is drawing 1-1 in the cauldron of the World Cup game – takes a self-belief that must not be underestimated. And, although his second strike against Tunisia was ‘only’ a penalty, it was Torres who earned it, pulled down when rising for a header.
Until this World Cup, it has been somewhat bewildering to many why the likes of Real Madrid, Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea appear willing to pay £20million for the man. There have been signs of a devastating talent – think of the two goals scored in the Nou Camp – but the overall impression seems to have been that Torres was in danger of becoming one of the most-hyped up footballers. Now, however, the praise is beginning to look justified for this special young talent with pace, vision and finishing ability in abundance. Which, naturally is brilliant news for Spanish and Athletico Madrid fans. For his suitors, however, the opposite is true – in all likelihood, his post-World Cup transfer fee, should he leave, will come close to £30million.
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