I spent most of yesterday's article worrying about the mayhem that would ensue in Bangladesh if Argentina were knocked out on Wednesday night. In hindsight, my concerns were misplaced. Not only did they qualify with aplomb, the other three teams seemed hell bent on getting themselves disqualified.

In the end, of course, Poland scraped through as a tired second. Their cynical strategy provided a melancholy coda to a group that started proceedings with such vibrant promise. 

I have to say this though, that my neighbourhood is fairly tame by Dhaka's boisterous standards. However, the noise that I heard after the final whistle in Argentina's game leaves me concerned about the structural integrity of the buildings in my area should the Albiceleste win it all. It will surely be a glorious mayhem.

Speaking of Argentina lifting the cup, I would like to proffer what is bound to be an unpopular opinion. There are many who have been saying that Lionel Messi deserves to lift the trophy, given that this is most likely his last edition. I understand the emotion behind these protestations. Given the innumerable moments of magic that Leo has provided us throughout his historical career, it would only seem fitting that he walks away with football's biggest prize. 

But where does that leave Cristiano Ronaldo – this generation's other great footballer – who, incidentally, is also playing in his last World Cup? 

However much we want, we cannot reward all our heroes with all the gifts. In the end, the TEAM that play the best will most likely win the trophy, and I daresay that that is how it should be. 

Last night we were again faced with the prospect of two pre-tournament favorites, Belgium and Germany, making ignominiously early exits. Moreover, Germany's game against Costa Rica had a wonderful historical byline regardless of results.

It was the first match in the history of World Cup football to be officiated by an all-female referee crew. Stephanie Frappart was assisted on the ground by Neuza Back and Karen Diaz, and Kathryn Nesbitt serving as the fourth official. Given the sports' long struggle with various prejudices and inequities, this is undoubtedly a welcome development. The Cinderellas may be crashing out one by one, but good stories continue to be written in Qatar 2022.