The 24mm World Cup Final

Canon 24mm f1.4 L v Nikon 17-35mm f2.8 v Olympus 24mm f2.8

Performance at f5.6 (Centre Frame)

Because this is the 24mm final, I was confident of achieving superb captures from each lens from hereon in – and they didn't disappoint. By f5.6, each lens is producing crisp, attractive images with bags of detail, credible plasticity and no significant gremlins.

Canon 24mm f1.4 L at f5.6 (centre)	Nikon 17-35: 24mm/f5.6 (centre)	Olympus 24mm f2.8 at f5.6 (centre)
0 points	1 points	2 points

But centre frame, the Olympus delivers Zeiss-like levels of microcontrast and detail. Performance here is on par with the all-conquering Distagon 21mm and in a different league from the Nikon zoom and the Canon prime, which still appears to be off the pace in the middle of the field. Down the wing, it's a different story.

Performance at f5.6 (Mid-Frame)

Canon 24mm f1.4 L at f5.6 (mid-frame)	Nikon 17-35: 24mm/f5.6 (mid-frame)	Olympus 24mm f2.8 at f5.6 (mid-frame)
2 points	0 points	1 points

Exceptionally fine rendition by the Canon: beautiful colouring, and every stitch in the netting visible. Once again, the Nikon 17-35mm is slightly edged out by the Zuiko 24mm. If only the fast L was as good in the middle.