Down with cold

Down with cold & sore-throat. It's amazing how since coming to US, i've fallen sick only twice or thrice. Thankfully this happened on a weekday. I hope i get better & back to full health before weekend starts ;-)

In Soccer World Cup, France won 3-1 against Spain and now advances to Quarterfinal. It was an interesting game ... and much closer than what the 3-1 score line suggests. Spain was in it with a real chance but they couldn't make most of the opportunity (and they're unlucky to not be awarded the second penalty).

That leads me to think what makes a Champion? What attributes/qualities separate a winner from an almost-there person/team?

My guess is:
1. the ability to stay focussed & calm when there's mayhem around you. The ability to think clearly when every external factor tries to distract/muddle your thought process.
2. the ability to identify when your chance comes along and the courage to take that chance ... convert that opportunity to success (highly dependent on 1).
3. self-belief: the belief in yourself that you're a winner ... that you're the champion and u'll triumph no matter what
4. persistence - never give-up attitude.

Comments / suggestions / arguments welcome.