Football is not war but it comes second in terms of the loyalty and passion it generates especially among men. Players are treated as stars and receive huge salaries from their clubs, the equivalent of Rs. 10 million a week. Players who are representing their countries at the World Cup in South Africa wear their countries' colors and carry their flags. Each game starts with the playing of national anthems of both countries. Sadly some players seem to have come along for the ride without any loyalty to their flag or concern for their fans. Smaller countries such as Slovenia, New Zealand and Honduras battled away valiantly but unfortunately could not get past the group stage. South Korea, Japan and Slovakia have progressed to the knock out stage through hard work, team spirit and skill. The progress of USA is especially romantic. Down 2-0 against Slovenia they did not give up. They battled to 2-2 and then suffered the heartbreak of seeing their third goal ruled out by the referee for unknown reasons. Against Algeria it was goalless until the last minute of injury time when Donovan scored for a famous victory and a place in the next round. Even Italy fought away to the last kick of the match including a fight with the goalkeeper of Slovakia but their aging bodies could not keep up with their younger opponents. At least they showed some pride. Against this background the pathetic and contemptible display of selfish petulance by the French is sickening. Whether you like the coach is immaterial. You must put in 100% of your effort for your flag. It is not just soldiers who should show loyalty. I hope the French people find some way to really punish these traitors.