POLITASPORTS

After settling for a draw in their first match verse Wales, and winning a draw in their second, verse England, the USMNT’s feet, will control their future.

If the United States were being interviewed for a job titled “Best Sports Country in the World” soccer would not be one of her “strengths” to put it mildly. Soccer has not captivated the hearts of our youth or best athletes. If Pele were born in Pennsylvania he no doubt would’ve focused on Football, Basketball, or perhaps Baseball as he grew. An estimated 24m Americans play soccer on some level; that is more than the entire population of 40 European countries, 43 Latin American and Caribbean countries, 40 African countries, 30 Asian countries, and nearly more than Australia and New Zealand’s combined population. Yet, at the premiere levels, the United States ranks far below our participation. It doesn’t help that our National Team hasn’t delivered on expectations in nearly two decades. Two of their biggest upsets have been draws. Beating number one ranked Spain in 2009 quickly transformed from popularity launch pad to forgettable fluke performance.

At 2PM EST Tuesday Nov. 29, they can secure their place in the knockout stage with a win over Iran and avenge their loss in the ‘98 World Cup. A loss or draw equals elimination. “Look if you had one shot, or one opportunity to seize everything you ever wanted one moment would you capture it or just let it slip?” Hoping they snatch the occasion, it’s our wish, and don’t leave their mom’s spaghetti all over the pitch.