Date:04/05/2006 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/05/04/stories/2006050402951200.htm

Back Discovery Networks airs six-part football series

Our Bureau

Hyderabad , May 3

If Brazil is synonymous with football with the likes of magical Garincha, peerless Pele and dazzling Ronaldinho, it is not without a major reason— football is not just a sport there, it is part of their culture, a way of life.

When Germany was denied the opportunity to play two world cups around the War times, and then went on to win when allowed to play, it reflects the game and the passion it packs into this sport. Interestingly, the sport is inextricably linked to the economy of a country too.

Build up

Discovery Networks has come up with a six-part series, "More than a game" that features top six teams as a build up towards the mega event set to kick off in Germany on June 9.

As Discovery traces how the game entertained and enthralled sports lovers across the globe, it brings to the fore its profound impact on Brazil and other countries during the economic downturn. So much so, that when Brazil won the cup, its economy went booming.

In the case of Germany, their resilience and determination was such that they would do anything to make a statement about their power to the world. In fact, on their return, they capped the event with a fitting reply, winning the cup.