The 'Operation World Cup' meme often draws parallels between the classic 'Operation' board game and the frequently dramatic physical stakes of international football. It gained traction as fans began photoshopping famous soccer stars onto the surgical table to poke fun at perceived 'flopping' or the sudden, high-profile injuries that can derail a national team's hopes. Beyond individual players, the template serves as a metaphor for the surgical precision required to navigate the tournament's group stages or the delicate balance fans maintain between their daily lives and the month-long sporting obsession. It perfectly captures the blend of high-level strategy and chaotic comedy that defines the global football experience.