I still remember Paul Caliguiri's goal against Czechoslovakia in the 1990 World Cup (hosted by Italy), the first U.S. soccer goal in the modern era. The 1994 World Cup, hosted by the United States, marked the coming of age for the U.S. soccer program as they pulled a major upset, defeating Colombia- one of the tournament's favorites. Fast-forward 16 years later and the U.S. soccer squad has established itself as a solid second-tier powerhouse in the same league as England, France, Mexico, Japan, and Ghana. Despite the loss in quarterfinals to the latter, the U.S. team remained faithful to its disciplined and passionate style that got them through the first round. Soccer (football as its known throughout the globe) has gained a lot of popularity in the United States in the past decade as it is evident in the increasing number of fans that gather to support the national team. Those of us who have followed the beautiful game our entire life, understand (and accept) that the rules of engagement have a few imperfections. U.S. fans have learned that the game has its ups and downs, a bipolar roller coaster that takes you on an ecstasy high one minute and on the verge of depression the next. We tied England thanks to Green's miscalculation as the official ball (Jabulani, $150) spun out of his hands into the net...beginner's luck? not really. We came from behind against Slovenia to tie the game at 2-2, and were then robbed of the winning goal in a legitimate play...poetic justice? maybe. Against Algeria we scored in the last minute, in the fashion of Uruguay, Italy, or Argentina; soccer passion at its peak!
After many years of following fútbol, I've come to realize that the game reflects each nation's take on life itself. The U.S. squad embodies tenacious American ideals, devoid of stoicism but rather a serene attitude, fueled by the conviction that anything can be accomplished with hard work and effort. Giving up is not a choice, as Yogi Berra used to say, "It ain't over till it's over." Despite elimination, the U.S. soccer program has earned the respect and admiration of the soccer world- that is, the entire world. After twenty years in the making, the United States has finally become a full-fledged soccer nation.
