The Big Games: Week Two of the World Cup

The second week of the World Cup did not disappoint -- from the games to social engagement, both proved to grab our attention. The week saw more than 75 million mentions and two million photos, with a reach of 253 billion. So, we have all the highlights on and off the pitch:

Iran played valiantly against Argentina but still couldn’t beat Messi’s left boot. The world was impressed, and the game helped Iran gain more respect for their game. Ghana held a strong German team to a tie, keeping all in the Group of Death alive. But Germany did make waves when Klose tied with Ronaldo in all time World Cup goal record at 15.

As the game came to a close, Mueller suffered a nasty gash to his head, gaining the group the new title of "Group of Gore."





Group G continued to be an Internet favorite with the USA-Portugal game a huge factor, drawing record US viewing figures for the sport (but not knocking the 115 million viewers that tuned in for the 2014 Super Bowl):

  • 25 million for USA’s 2-2 draw with Portugal – the most ever for a football match in the US.

  • 17.9 million – previous record, for the 1999 Women’s World Cup final.

  • 16 million – for USA’s opening victory against Ghana.

  • 15.5 million – average for this year’s NBA finals.

  • 14.9 million – average for the 2013 baseball World Series.


While the draw proved to make the group more uncertain for all, it definitely provided fodder for many online.



The attention didn't stay on the Group of Death for long. Mexico's coach Herrera quickly became the Internet's darling as the final round of group stage matches took off.







Suarez also broke the Internet with the "bite heard round the world":

















While the world focused on Suarez, Costa Rico pulled the ultimate feat by exiting their group undefeated with a tie against England. On the same day, Colombia put on the ultimate class act by subbing in reserve keeper Mondragon, who is the oldest player to appear at 43 yeas and three days -- 20 years after the murder of his friend Escobar.

Meanwhile, the Twittersphere couldn't resist making lunch lady comparisons after Ecuador's Noboa got a bit bloodied with a head injury playing France.



Finally, the USA proved they know a thing or two about social by closing out the week by psyching up their country with an excuse note from Klinsmann:



Published on 2014-06-30 22:28:36

Back to Blog