ZZ Top – Eliminator (1983)
Saturday 27 June 2026
Finally, after what seems like a lifetime, we’re about to reach the knockout stages of the World Cup.
Thankfully, the weather has cooled.
I sit listening to Eliminator through my headphones while ‘er indoors works her way through another box set.
I’m sipping Coors and tapping my feet to Gimme All Your Lovin’, which somehow still sounds as fresh as the day I first heard it in 1983.
Then I remember the album is now forty-three years old.
That takes a bit of getting my head around.
Catching up with the football news this morning, I was surprised to discover Scotland can still qualify.
Mathematically.
A 0.07% chance isn’t exactly encouraging, but stranger things have happened.
As always, Scotland’s supporters have become the tournament’s favourite travelling fans.
The team, however, have struggled.
Is Steve Clarke actually Sir Gareth in disguise?
After scraping past Haiti, Scotland have looked out of their depth against Morocco and Brazil.
Yes, both are among the world’s best sides, but conceding early goals and constantly chasing matches has made life unnecessarily difficult.
For Scotland not to qualify from an expanded World Cup, where progressing is arguably easier than ever before, would be disappointing.
Meanwhile, world champions-elect England take on footballing powerhouse Panama.
The sort of opposition Harry Kane usually enjoys.
I can’t see England having too many problems topping the group, setting up what looks like a tricky Round of 32 tie against Ecuador.
Beyond that lies the enticing prospect of Mexico at the Azteca.
Thomas Tuchel may soon have to start earning his salary.
The knockout stages are where every World Cup really begins.
The expanded format has perhaps made the group stage feel a little longer than necessary, but there are already some fascinating ties on the horizon.
Argentina versus Cape Verde.
Brazil versus Japan.
Now we’re talking.
The media, meanwhile, continue their obsession with individuals.
There was great amusement last night when Erling Haaland was unexpectedly left out against France.
Panic ensued.
Thankfully, England’s match is on ITV.
Apart from the inexplicable determination to involve American celebrities whenever possible, they’re still comfortably outperforming the BBC.
With an extended build-up ahead, I fully expect plenty of dramatic camera pans and montages between the adverts.
And, naturally, a considerable amount of shouting.
Some traditions survive every World Cup.
WORLD CUP LOG #5
Manchester, England
The Listening Log 