As the camera pans across the stands during the game, capturing a close-up of a handful of spectators, there’s an odd indifference on their faces at this World Cup. Ever since these images were first produced – if memory serves the purpose of Brazil 2014 – the knowledge of glimpsing a few seconds on the big screen at the stadium and television screens around the world triggered an instantaneous rush of happiness. The elation often contrasted with the general mood of these fans because their team was just behind. The spectators then noticed an inner conflict: they sat there slumped, could hardly believe the drama on the lawn. But then the heartbroken realized that the camera had chosen them from the crowd. And you could bet the grief would soon turn to cheers and enthusiastic waves. The flash of celebrity outshone the loyalty to one’s own team.
Fans stay cool in Qatar at close-up – media
