Rant warning!
I love football/soccer/whatever you call that game where you can't touch the ball with your hands. I learned to play while my Dad was stationed in Germany, and played consistently for over ten years. My first exposure to the World Cup was while we lived in Germany, the 78 cup (grats Argentina). Ever since, I've been hoping, waiting, and in weaker moments, even praying for US involvement. Well, until 2002, we were something of a joke. But, hey, I thought, that's ok, because we're new to this, and things will improve. And boy, was 2002 a nice improvement. Finally, it seemed like we had a decent talent pool, and were on the verge of being serious contenders. Leading up to this year, we have more players with international experience than ever, and I was excited when we qualified.
Then I watched the game v. the Chech Rep. What was that? Y'know, I can take losing if the guys play hard, but that was pathetic. The whole team played flatfooted, didn't hustle, and shied away from any challenges. I think we had one quality shot on goal. One. They played like they were scared.
My god, grow a pair. This is the World Cup.
/rant.
:/
J