I got invited to a BBQ in Bois-Le-Roi by the River Seine on Thursday Evening. The surroundings were magnificent. Royal woods, large mansions and rich gardens overlooked the most peaceful river, embraced by tall trees, gently bending over its bed.

As the host was getting the BBQ ready, we all gathered in front of the TV screen to watch France-Croatia. The host made some unsuccessful attempts to break his loneliness by indicating that food and beer had been served on the terrace, no one moved an inch before the final whistle launched us all back into the world.