What is Eid Mubarak and a Singaporean guide on Hari Raya Puasa

Simply put, Eid Mubarak is the Arabic version of Selamat Hari Raya Puasa.

To find out more about Hari Raya Puasa was interesting for me especially when my friend remarked that although Singapore is a racially harmonious country, he did not feel very involved in the lives of his friends of other races. How sad but true, as the interaction between the different races seems to be not as significant as before. To some of our non-Muslim peers, the meaning of Hari Raya Puasa is slowly eroding to the equivalent of just another public holiday, which in my opinion is unfortunate that more people do not to understand this rich culture.

It’s time we start to get in touch with the roots of our Muslim peers again. Here I will share on what I learnt from my Muslim friends and through online research.

What we should know about Hari Raya Puasa

·         Hari Raya Puasa or Hari Raya Aidilfitri, is the festival of Eid. It falls on the first day of the 10^th month of the Islamic lunar calendar and marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.

·         What is Eid? Eid is an Arabic term meaning "festivity" or "celebration" It is short for Eid-al- fitr which goes by Hari Raya Puasa in Singapore.

·         What is Ramadan? Ramadan falls on the 9^th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is an important month of fasting which a Muslim undergoes as an act of worship and obedience to their god. Muslims will abstain from food and drink from dawn to dusk and perform religious duties.

What do Muslims do during Hari Raya Puasa

I believe majority of Singaporeans will answer: go to the mosque. They are right, but that is at best a superficial one. Hari Raya Puasa is a very busy day for a Muslim.

Muslims celebrate the Hari Raya Puasa getting dressed in their best attire, typically new clothes which are bought or made. In the morning, they visit the mosque and special ‘Eid prayers’ are recited. This is a practice to celebrate the end of the month-long fast.

One of the first things to be done is that the father or head of the family pays a special tax called Zakaat ul Fitr (Zakat for short). Zakat stands for purification and growth. In Islamic law, the zakat prescribes 2.5% of property or 1/40th of income to be distributed to the poor and needy. It ought to be paid before Eid so that it can be given to the less fortunate families to allow them to join in this joyous occasion.

The rest of the day is spent visiting friends and family. Muslims celebrate with a lavish spread of food such as beef rendang, ketupat and lontong. Children relish as that they receive gifts and money from aunts, uncles and grandparents.

Anything to add? Let me know!

Hope this was useful for you

EUFASS

World Cup 2014: Germany beats Argentina to win the World Cup, creates history

64 matches, 32 Countries, 1 World Cup trophy.

The 2014 World Cup has finally concluded, with a stroke of brilliance by Mario Gotze that earned Germany their 4th World Cup Title.

120 mins Match Review

The Germans were playing at their usual style of short passes and had several chances in the box, but no shots managed to trouble Romero. Joachim Low made a substitution which was a rewarding move as Gotze scored the winner.

Argentina produced a few brilliant long balls that put their forwards in one-on-one situations, but both Higuain and Palacio were unable to convert.

Both sides fronted a solid defence in which Messi and Mueller had both chances. Messi is always guarded by at least 3 men, a heuristic which Germany strongly adhered to keep Messi at bay.

As the game proceeded further into extra time, tensions rose as the match saw blood after a nasty 'accidental' fist from Aguero landed on Schwensteinger. Time stopped in the 122nd minute when Messi stepped up to take the free kick. If he scored, he would probably havebeen the 

Best performers

Neuer for Germany, for his visionary judgment portrayed in running out of the goal for some magnificent saves.

Mascherano for Argentina, for his threatening long balls while contributing substantially to defence.

History was made.

• This is Germany's 4th World Cup title and a good 24 years has passed since their last title.
  
• Germany becomes the first European team to win the World Cup in South America.
  
• Mario Gotze's name will go in history for being the first substitute to score the only goal in a world cup final.
  
• 36-year old Miroslav Klose not only broke the all time goal scoring record for one single player at the World Cup, and is also the first man to appear in 4 World Cup finals.

See you in the next World Cup 2018 Russia
EUFASS 


World Cup Trivia is a series designed for the current World Cup 2014 to give fans more than one ways to savour the game. 

World Cup 2014: Argentina Vs Germany Statistic analysis and Prediction

Argentina

The clash of the titans will happen in less than 5 hours. No matter the result, new history would be made. For Germany, this is their 8th time playing in the finals, making them the team with the most number of final games played. Argentina on the other hand, will need to win this after a 18 year drought of the World Cup. Especially for Messi, there is no meaning in being compared to Maradona, without a World Cup in his tally.


Statistics analysis of Argentina vs Germany

All time record
Played: 21
Argentina won: 9
Germany won: 6
Draws: 5
Both scored 28 goals against each other, signifying Argentina's low-margin-of-victory style of play.

This World Cup

	Argentina	Germany
World Cups won	2	3
Goals scored	7	17 (No thanks to thrashing Brazil 7-1 in the semifinals)
Attempts per match	15.8	14.7
Shots on target	60%	70%
Passes completed	2928	3421
Passes completion %	80%	80%

Prediction: Argentina.

Germany is the favourite, but Argentina will not let their guard down. They are a menace in attack and solid in defence. Germany might have won Brazil 7-1, but they have to recognize this is the match that matters. I felt that the players already thought they won the World Cup with all the unnecessary comments they are giving the press. Underestimating Argentina will be a grave mistake. Looking forward to a wonderful match tonight!

Who do you think will win?
EUFASS

World Cup Trivia is a series designed for the current World Cup 2014 to give fans more than one ways to savour the game. 

World Cup Trivia: Semifinals key stats and stadiums

This World Cup Semifinals we see 2 from South America and 2 from Europe. It will no doubt be a South America vs Europe showdown as we have Brazil vs Germany in the first set and Argentina vs Netherlands in the second. 

Some Trivia

From the first World Cup in 1990, It has always been the South Americans taking the World Cup Trophy when it is hosted in the Americana. By this logic, the odds are low for Germany and Netherlands.

There were 4 times in World Cup history that only one continent was left in the Semifinals, and they were all teams from Europe. 

1934: Italy, Austria, Czechoslovakia and Germany. 

1966: West Germany, Soviet Union (Former Russia), England and Portugal. 

1982: Italy, West Germany, Poland and France

2006: Italy, France, Germany and Portugal 

The Big matches ahead:

08 Jul 2014 - 17:00 Local time

Brazil and Germany will play at Estadio Mineirao(stadium name), Belo Horizonte(city) 

• Estadio Mineirao (Stadium Mineirao) was coined by the governor of Minai Gerais and Mineiraos means someone born in Minai Gerais
• Constructed in 1965
• Overall capacity of 58170

In the previous clashes, Brazil managed 12 wins 5 draw 4 losses against Germany

Brazil scored 63 goals vs Germany's 39 goals

More key stats and prediction of Brazil vs Germany here

09 Jul 2014 - 17:00 Local time

Argentina and Netherlands will play at Arena Corinthians(stadium name), Sao Paulo(city).

• Arena Corinthians, also known as Arena de Sao Paulo, is the stadium for Sao Paulo's home club, Corinthians.
• Constructed in 2014
• Overall capacity 62601

Suprisingly, Netherlands has the better record of 4 wins 3 draw 1 loss against Argentina.
Netherlands scored 13 goals vs Argentina's 6 goals

More key stats and prediction of Argentina vs Netherlands here

Statistics never lie. But the truth is: STATS DON'T MATTER. Cheers to an exciting World Cup, enjoy while it lasts!

EUFASS

World Cup 2014: Argentina vs Netherlands Semifinals Prediction

3 out of 4 teams predicted overall!

100% accuracy prediction recorded for both of yesterday’s quarterfinal matches! 

Argentina Vs Belgium review

An early goal from Higuain sealed the match for Argentina, bringing the La Albiceleste into the semifinals for the first time since 1990. The mere one-goal margin does not do justice to the sublime play by the Argentines. The following scenes were still etched in my mind, Di Maria’s skilful ball juggle, Messi’s defence-splitting through passes as well as Higuain’s electrifying run that finished with a shot that shaved off the crossbar.

Oh and of course, the most hilarious scene award goes to coach Alejandro Sabella's fall to the ground after witnessing Higuain’s close shot.

Another 1-0 score like France vs Germany, but...

Same scoreline as France vs Germany, yet the Argentines delivered a more beautiful play of football. They held the possession well with threatening passes and held the Belgians at bay with the likes of Messi at the front. Placing any number less than 3 defenders against Messi will be suicidal.

Holland Vs Costa Rica review

I have secretly hoped for Costa Rica to win. Not even the ultra strike force trio of Van Persie, Sneijder and Robben manage to find the back of the net throughout the 120mins of play, which speaks volume of the strength of Costa Rica’s defence. Despite the loss, I believe the Los Ticos will return as heroes, after all they are the first Central American country that made it so far.

My only grievance for Netherlands was the waste of their plentiful attacking chances. Netherlands would definitely need to better their goal conversion to beat Argentina.

Argentina Vs Holland Statistic analysis and Prediction

For the next match, Argentina will unfortunately be missing Di Maria, who is another fearsome figure in the midfield that causes panic among his opponents with his lightning pace and superb ball-handling. (Yes, they still have Messi though)

Netherlands on the other hand, looks set to take their first world cup, but not before defeating Argentina. Argentina has never lost in the semifinals before. The difference for the Oranje, is the presence of a visionary coach, Van Der Gaal, whose move to substitute the first team keeper at the final minute proved effective.  

Statistics analysis of Argentina vs Netherlands

	Argentina	Netherlands
World Cups won	2	0
Goals scored	7	12
Attempts per match	17.4	15
Shots on target	60%	70%
Passes completed	2438	2031
Passes completion %	80%	80%
Key man to watch	Still Messi.	Best Attacking team: Inside the box: Van Persie Outside the box: Sneijder Running all around creating terror: Robben

Prediction: Argentina.

Both teams are strong, but Netherlands has to go. Historically the host continent will take the World Cup. What is more exciting than a Brazil vs Argentina final  for 2014 World Cup? Probably if Brazil still had Neymar, it would have been the perfect match of the tournament.

Who will qualify for the finals?
EUFASS


World Cup Trivia is a series designed for the current World Cup 2014 to give fans more than one ways to savour the game. 

World Cup Trivia: Semifinals Prediction Brazil vs Germany

Brazil vs Germany

It was an eventful day where both Germany and Brazil outclassed their opponents. Germany, held their defense rock solid amidst France efforts to level the score; Brazil, on the other hand, constantly put the Colombians on the edge of their toes.

(Do watch the stunning free kick by David Luiz if you haven't. Definitely worth your time to catch.)

My prediction on these 2 quarterfinal matches was 50% accurate. Regardless, this is a set up for an EPIC match where the favourites both enter to the next round and face each other. Who will win in this semifinal match? Let's see what has changed...

Developments for the Brazil team since quarterfinals

Star striker Neymar is out of the World cup due to a broken vertebrae. 

Why is he important? If you look at the goals scored, chances created, shots on goal, as well as attacking touches, the 22 year old soccer prodigy ranks first among his team. Though he did not score in the colombia match, he was the clear threat which drew quite a few defenders to allow other players to find the net.

Why this may not be important? With the depth of the Brazilian team, they are still indubitably a force to be reckon with Hulk as the main striker.

Captain and central defender Thiago Silva will also be out due to second yellow card

Now with one key player out, Brazil might be able to manage. With their captain and heart of the defence out as well, Coach Scolari will need to think of a strategy to fortify the team's defence.

Developments for the German team since quarterfinals

Nothing much but good news for the Germans.

With this victory over France, Germany gains a new accolade of being the first nation to reach FOUR consecutive World Cup semifinals.

Win at all costs
This match against France saw the Germans scaling back their attacks after their first goal in the 15th minute. It was agonizing to watch as they disrupted France's attacks, held possession and executed strategic fouls to slow down the opponent's pace. Yet, they are unlike the 100% defensive style of Greece, as they can capitalize on defence gaps with their efficient strikers when the opportunity arises.

Statistics analysis of Brazil vs Germany

	Brazil	Germany
World Cups won	5	3
Goals scored	10	10
Attempts per match	16.4	14.8 (Only took Germany 3 shots on target to seal the game against France)
Shots on target	70%	70%
Passes completed	1816	2938 (Gasp!)
Passes completion %	70%	80%
Key man to watch	Defender: David Luiz (Strong in defence yet a clear threat in his shots. Reminds me of Roberto Carlos)	Keeper: Manuel Neuer (Splendid reflexes against France) Efficient attacking force: Thomas Mueller, Mesut Ozil, Mario Goetze

Prediction: The pick is hard on this one.

I would still go with Brazil to extend their record win of 5 world cups. I am rooting for Brazil as their dynamic, fast-paced style of football is not something Germany's efficient, mechanical soccer style can manage.


Brazil or Germany, tell us your pick!
EUFASS


World Cup Trivia is a series designed for the current World Cup 2014 to give fans more than one ways to savour the game. 

World Cup Trivia: Quarterfinals prediction and the Semifinal teams

Source

2014 FIFAWorld Cup Quarterfinals will start tomorrow! After a 75% prediction accuracy for the round of 16, I am looking to continue this streak for the quarterfinals.

The quarterfinals this time round can easily be the most interesting of World Cup history. With the likes of previous champions such as France and Germany clashing against each other, the results can pretty much go both ways. Who will emerge victorious into the semifinals?

The quarterfinals fixtures in Singapore timings are below

Jul 4th (Friday Night, Saturday Morning)

12am
France vs Germany 
France was doubtful due to absence of Ribery due to injury, but they have since proven their critics wrong with their strong performance. In fact, France has displayed one of the strongest midfield force, especially with the dynamic showing of 21-year old Paul Bogba.

Germany has consistently delivered strong results but tripped in the match against Algeria, scrambling for a win only after extra time.

Key statistics analysis France vs Germany

	France	Germany
World Cups won	1 (1998)	3 (1954, 1974, 1990)
Goals scored	8	9
Attempts per match	19.3	16.5
Shots on target	60%	70%
Passes completed	1807	2560
Passes completion %	80%	80%
Key man to watch	Powerful Midfield: Paul Pogba, Yohan Cabaye and Valbuena	Strong attacking force: Thomas Mueller, Mesut Ozil, Mario Goetze

Prediction: France to go through. This team led by Didier Deschamps is strong, spirited and looks unstoppable.


4am
Brazil vs Colombia 
Brazil, gosh, you worry when you see them play. Despite a star-studded team, sometimes you wonder if they are taking the game seriously.

Colombia on the other hand has shown to be powerful strike force, scoring even more goals than the 5-time World cup champions. The top goalscorer of the tournament so far, James Rodriguez, is frequently compared to Brazil's striker Neymar Jr. It will come to a decisive battle between the no.10s of both squads, and coincidentally, both at 22 years of age.

Statistics analysis of Brazil vs Colombia

	Brazil	Colombia
World Cups won	5	0
Goals scored	8	11
Attempts per match	17.5	11.5
Shots on target	70%	70%
Passes completed	1551	1224
Passes completion %	70%	70%
Key man to watch	Star Striker: Neymar Jr	Star Striker: James Rodriguez

Prediction: Brazil. They make you worry, but that's their style. At the end of the day, they conjure some magic to win, like how they did for the 5 previous world cups.

- If you can only choose between friday night and saturday night, I will recommend to catch these 2 matches on Friday match. If you can choose only one match, I will recommend to watch France vs Germany. Expect another helluva match. -

Jul 5th (Saturday night, Sunday morning)

12am
Argentina vs Belgium 
Argentina has been lucky for the previous couple of matches, winning by a slight margin thanks to their superstar Messi. Can Messi do a Maradona? You bet he can, in the last match against Switzerland, Messi basically cleared the way for Di Maria to score, having drawn 6 defenders to himself.

Belgium has been reckoned as the Dark horse for this world cup. Their current generation amass some of the best players the Red Devils have ever put together. Yet, the team is somewhat incomplete in my opinion. They might have ample chances against USA, but there is lack of synergy due to presence of "onlookers" in the team which do not make much impact.

Some of the key statistics analysis of Argentina vs Belgium

	Argentina	Belgium
World Cups won	2 (1978, 1986)	0
Goals scored	6	6
Attempts per match	19.3	20.3
Shots on target	60%	70%
Passes completed	2112	1641
Passes completion %	80%	70%
Key man to watch	Magician: Messi	Forward: Eden Hazard

Prediction: Argentina. I am optimistic that they might take the World Cup this time round.


4am
Netherlands vs Costa Rica 
The Dutch has put up a strong opening thrashing Spain 5-1. After watching numerous tournaments, it struck me that Netherlands is a team that run out of steam at the end of the cup. They have had the best players, however Netherlands is the only top tier European team yet to have won the World Cup. (They are 3-time runner-ups though) True enough, they are showing signs of fatigue, just managing a last burst of goals in the final few minutes to secure a win against Mexico in their previous match.

Thankfully, their opponent is not the strongest out there. Costa Rica has shocked many with their victory over Uruguay and Italy, but has yet to have a proven track record especially after scrambling through the penalties against Greece. If it was luck that brought them this far, luck can only bring you that far.

Statistics analysis of Netherlands vs Costa Rica

	Netherlands	Costa Rica
World Cups won	0	0
Goals scored	12	5
Attempts per match	13.8	8
Shots on target	70%	50%
Passes completed	1360	1284
Passes completion %	80%	70%
Key man to watch	Attacking trio: Robben, Van Persie, Sneijder	Goalkeeper Keylor Navas

Prediction: Netherlands will win, but they will have to work hard for it. On paper, Costa Rica looks rather weak, but such teams are the real threat.

- Definitely watching Netherlands vs Costa Rica. Secretly hoping for Costa Rica to go through-

What's your prediction?
EUFASS

World Cup Trivia is a series designed for the current World Cup 2014 to give fans more than one ways to savour the game.