World Cup

6/18/10

Obnoxious John

Lately all I’ve been hearing is “World Cup this and World Cup that.” Stories about soccer strategy and skill levels. Articles and spotlights on individual players and teams. Seems that some believe the USA has a team that may finally compete for said “World Cup.”

Feeling like I was going to be the only one in the dark unless I caught up, I noticed that the US was taking on Slovenia, a nation of 2 million. Why this figure is important will be expounded on shortly.  So today, 6/18, I turn on the TV at 6:30am and catch the pre-game folderol and hullaballoo. Without really saying it, it was said that the US team should win this game because (among other reasons) Slovenia is a nation of only 2 million persons.

There were profiles on the players, almost all of whom I’d never heard, then they talked about Slovenia and it got worse. Finally it was time to play. Frequently when the subject of soccer comes up, especially with those who follow that game, I always remark ‘the contest seems to consist of lots of running and kicking and no scoring.’  They would reassure me that I was incorrect in my assessment and I should continue to watch.

Well, I’m trying to follow the game this morning, while getting ready for work and all of a sudden I hear a great hue and cry from the announcers! ‘Something has happened, I think. Maybe the US scored a goal!

Imagine my surprise as I look at the TV and see a team of dark haired, heavy bearded guys with names loaded with z,j, v and k dancing around wildly. The little team that could, the country of fewer people than the city of Seattle and the surrounding environs had drawn first blood by scoring on the US. I was aghast! The nerve of some countries!

To make matters worse, Slovenia had doubled the score by halftime. Now the announcers were in a quandary. Suddenly David looked capable of slaying Goliath and no one could really figure out why. The talking heads did remark on sloppy and careless play by the US, on the lack of energy and seeming unfocused effort.

No one mentioned what I thought certain to be the reason.

The US players felt that because Slovenia ‘only has 2 million people’ they couldn’t be taken seriously. They seemed to think they only had to show up, stretch, jog onto the field and the contest would be decided.

They were wrong and it almost cost them. The Americans did manage to tie the game and many people say a poor call by the referee reversing a goal, cost them the victory.

It should never have been that close to begin with because after all, ”Slovenia only has 2 million people.”

But it appears they found the 11 people who know how to play soccer.

Now get out there and take one for the team!