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June 8, 2006

World Cup

I remember when the Red Sox played (and won) the Yankees in the 2004 World Series. Almost all of the American students crammed into pubs and cheered on their team until pretty early in the morning (due to the time difference). This phenomenon is commonly seen when it comes to baseball or football -- but soccer? From my experience growing up in New England, soccer was not very popular among Americans.

Tomorrow is the beginning of the 2006 World Cup -- a very important tournament not only for soccer fans but all of Europe. Friends make plans to watch matches together, money is being put down for bets, and everyone is eager to see who will win. Romans are especially excited to see their hero, Francesco Totti, finally play for the Italian team after breaking his ankle some months ago.

"I have to see every game that Italy plays," my boyfriend warned me the other day, "and Brazil. I can't miss a Brazil game." I have been told that when the Italian team has its matches, the streets are empty; and even those who never watch soccer are glued to the TV to root for their nation.

"So what do you think about the American team?" I have been getting asked recently. I respond with an ignorant shrug and say, "To be honest, I couldn't name a single player." My Italian friends gasp, and then proceed to inform me about my own country's team.

Posted by Kelsea  at 4:44 AM | Permalink

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