It is, now...

You will be looking to this space for something more definitive than even the most detailed assessments of the virtues of the 3-4-2-1 formation versus Germany's square and predictable 4-4-2.

To the unpractised eye, Ronaldo looked a bit shaky to start off with, but he was only a little late in keeping his appointment with destiny. And, in case you're still wondering, we can solve the riddle of that haircut. (He wanted something unmistakable after his two-year-old son kissed Roberto Carlos on the television screen, saying "It's daddy, daddy.")

But this is a space for more substantial insights, so here they are. It was a tremendous game. Good sportsmanship. Credit to both countries. Highest standard of refereeing in the world. Right result. Justice, honour, England's pride and a billion television viewers satisfied.