World Cup Update

During the World Cup it’s hard for me to focus on anything but the upcoming soccer game. Thus far, I’ve been quite pleased with the outcomes of the games, with some notable exceptions. First and foremost, experiencing the World Cup in South America is a marked change from the more apathetic American soccer culture. South American countries literally buzz with excitement, country flags line every available inch of public space, and games are featured at every gas station, bar, and shop. The World Cup is a fever that is infecting, mesmerizing, and energizing the continent, thus I can only imagine the feeling in South Africa, and Africa more broadly.

My teams for this World Cup are Brasil, the US, and Honduras. I would also love to see an African team progress far in the World Cup. Realistically, however, only Brasil has a shot at the title. Having lost to Chile in the first game and low ranked overall, Honduras stands little chance of even progressing to the next round. Nevertheless, the tiny country’s hard fought World Cup qualification is a boon for Central America and a testament to the unifying potential of soccer.

Tying on a fluke goal but a generally well-played game, the US selection is a quick and adept team. If it can shake its penchant for lagging behind early and playing catch-up, the US stands a chance of progressing and showing soccer fans worldwide that the US can indeed compete on an international level.

Although they eked out a 2-1 win against lowest ranked North Korea, Brasil’s debut match left much to be desired. Brasil’s coach, Dunga, has drawn widespread criticism for omitting Ronaldinho and young star Neymar from the Brasilian selection, and eschewing jogo bonito (the pretty game) in favor of a more structured and efficient style of play. Still, my favorite Brasilian player, Robinho, used his flair and creativity to control the center and create goal-scoring opportunities against North Korea. Having grown up in a favela, Robinho represents the essence of Brasilian soccer- with his speed, flashy foot skills, and love of the game, Robinho is truly force to be reckoned with. Nevertheless, on the whole, the team was largely unable to penetrate North Korea’s five-player defensive line, and gave up an easy goal in the second half. Despite their slow start, Brasil’s selection should not be written off. The only country to have won five World Cup Championships, Brasil stands a strong chance of claiming their sixth title. Buoyed by a history of soccer domination, an emerging economy, and home to the next World Cup and Olympic Games, Brasil’s momentum could well propel the team to another title.




In my opinion, some of the most noteworthy teams thus far have been Holland, Germany, and South Africa.

Let the games continue!