Rowley backing Brazil for World Cup

PRIME Minister Dr Keith Rowley is supporting Brazil to win the 2018 World Cup in Russia. He was among several parliamentarians who told Newsday yesterday about the teams they are supporting at the World Cup.

While Rowley said he is has been a long-standing Brazilian fan, he was left concerned about Brazil's 1-1 draw with Switzerland in their opening match last week. "I have to wake them up," he quipped.

Asked who she was supporting, Planning Minister Camille Robinson-Regis replied, "Brazil." She added, "I was quite pleased with Senegal. I also like Nigeria.They have always fielded a strong team among the African nations." Energy Minister Franklin Khan is supporting Lionel Messi and Argentina to win the finals. "I think Messi deserves a World Cup." Khan believes Argentina's Diego Maradona, "is the best footballer of all time." Argentina play Croatia in a crucial Group D game today.

Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh is supporting, "Argentina or Brazil." Trade and Industry Minister Paula Gopee-Scoon is supporting Brazil. Chaguanas West MP Ganga Singh is supporting Spain who faced Iran during yesterday's's sitting of the House of Representatives and eked out a 1-0 win.

Pointe-a-Pierre MP David Lee is supporting Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal, which defeated Morocco 1-0 yesterday. Lee admitted his favourite team is the Netherlands, who failed to qualify for Russia. Barataria/San Juan MP Dr Fuad Khan is supporting defending champions Germany.

Oropouche East MP Dr Roodal Moonilal said, "As a child, I grew up watching English and German football." Moonilal continued," I still support England and Germany since Holland where I studied six years ago is out." He said he was overwhelmed when England defeated Tunisia in their opening match, thanks to a brace from captain Harry Kane.

Moonilal also hoped that Mexico, who defeated Germany 1-0, would do well in the finals as a Concacaf nation. He said he will be, "glued to the tele in the coming days, hope the Parliament understands." At home, Moonilal said he is stocked for the finals. "My cupboard is stocked up with popcorn, cokes, chips and mangoes."