The US upset victory over England in the 1950 World Cup still ranks as America's most famous victory.The English are the godfather's of modern football. They codified the game and exported it to the distant shores encompassed by their vast 19th century empire. And yet they have only managed a lone World Cup victory in 1966. While 2006's unsuccessful campaign was marred by the tabloids and their obsession with the WAG's shopping sprees, Fabio Capello has this cup's edition disciplined and working together better than ever. The Three Lions have the talent to go all the way and will be looking to make a statement of intent in their opening match.
The Yanks represent the single country which has held out against global football fever. But would it surprise you to hear that Americans have purchased the greatest number of tickets to this year's WC? What about the fact that MLS has now moved past the NBA and NHL in average attendance? It seems the generation that grew up playing soccer in the 70's and 80's (thanks to Pele's stint with the New York Cosmos) have come of age. With ESPN's marketing muscle and team USA breaking Spain's unbeaten streak of 35 games in last year's Confederation Cup, hope and participation are at an all time high. Another historic victory over England could well put soccer over the top.
It's easy to see why this is one of the most anticipated matches of the opening round.
2 comments:
It was a long wait between the Oakland Stompers and the World Cup/Women's World Cup at Stanford. I'm delighted with how far we've come in the US! About time!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oakland_Stompers
nice, wex. i've heard so much about the ny cosmos, but didn't know about the stompers. that US women's team was amazing though, and also share a lot of the credit for popularizing the game. hamm, fawcett, akers, foudy, and chastain were bad ass.
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