Americans learning how to spell football -- s-o-c-c-e-r
In a stunning upset, the United States' national soccer team beat Mexico 2-0 in their World Cup second round game yesterday, advancing to the quarterfinals for the first time since 1930 and demonstrating to the world that Americans have come a long way since finishing dead last in 1998.
When you say Columbus and football in the same breath, that is only supposed to mean the Ohio State University Buckeyes. At least, that's what it has meant. Today, however, say football and Columbus outside the United States, and world aficionados of football -- soccer in the U.S. -- are talking about Brian McBride, star of the Columbus Crew Major League Soccer team and now of the U.S national soccer team.
McBride, who celebrates his 30th birthday tomorrow, gave a present to this nation yesterday, scoring first against Mexico. Landon Donovan, a 20-year-old California who plays for the San Jose Earthquakes, scored the second goal.
Another Ohio connection
But as outstanding as their efforts were, perhaps the game's most valuable player was goalkeeper Brad Friedel, of Bay Village, Ohio, who held Mexico scoreless although they controlled the ball for two-thirds of the match.
More American children are probably playing soccer than any other sport, but the professional game has yet to catch an audience to match. But the success of the American women in Olympic and World Cup play and the increasing success of the men's team could help U. S. fandom gain momentum.
Next up, the highly rated German team. On paper, the game looks to be no match, but as U.S. Coach Bruce Arena said, "We don't play on paper."
Americans like to cheer for the underdog. Here's our chance.