In the World-Class Realm: Special Pre-Match Rituals Observed by Elite Athletes.
During the period of 2008-2012, the Spanish national football team dominated the world stage with two UEFA European Championships and one FIFA World Cup title, employing an attractive style of play known as tiki-taka. Let us explore the particular rituals commonly observed by the Spanish stars of that era before taking to the field for competition.
Iker Casillas frequently alters the sleeves and hem of his jersey, with teammates assisting him in donning the captain’s armband as it proves challenging while wearing gloves. Puyol consistently enters the field with his right foot and never steps over the lines, even during gameplay. He always tucks his socks in, whereas Xavi does the opposite.
David Villa has been wearing a pair of copper shin guards since he was 18, believing they bring him luck. Pique typically starts without wearing his shin guards and only puts them on just before stepping onto the field. Additionally, Pique consistently enters the field leading with his right foot. Sergio Ramos always wears his right boot first and steps onto the field with his left foot.
Fabregas habitually kisses the ring presented to him by his girlfriend on four occasions. Senna consistently offers prayers before matches, seeking protection from injuries for himself and his teammates. Marchena prefers to glance in the mirror before taking to the field “to assess his motivation level.” Silva and Mata both favor entering the pitch with their left foot forward.
During a certain period, Guiza was observed consuming Oreo cookies before matches, occasionally relying on team staff to procure them should he forget. The striker also exhibited a consistent practice of wearing similar printed shirts for sleepwear on the nights preceding matches.
Pepe Reina and Capdevila are exemplary individuals known for their meticulous habits and routines. Reina, in particular, exhibits a preference for being the last to exit the team bus, maintaining a consistent attire, engaging in prayer when signaled by the referee to conclude a match, and occupying the same seat on the substitute bench for superstitious reasons.
In the case of Capdevila, he meticulously prepares starting from the left side: strapping on his armband, protecting his shins, donning socks, shoes… He steps onto the field with three hops, alternating between his left and right foot. Prior to matches, Capdevila also adheres to a pre-game ritual involving a shower and listening to the same song, “All Apologies” by Nirvana.
During the rendition of the national anthem preceding matches, Sergio Ramos often gazes towards the sky for inspiration, while Capdevila opts to touch the ears of his neighboring teammates.