FIFA WORLD CUP 2010

Okay! I just watched the USA v. England game in South Africa, and have come off ready for more World Cup action. Perhaps the USA, late to get on the football train, does not have the same football culture as England, Brazil, or Spain, but the team is still very strong. Coming away tied 1-1 (14th against England's 8th place ranking) seems almost like a victory for the United States.

What is there to look forward to, aside from a US victory? Of 32 qualifying teams, current rankings show Brazil as the projected winner (and obviously Italy, now ranked #5, is the defending champion). I am also following a few other teams: France, ranked at 9th, Israel at 26th, and Cote d'Ivoire at 27th.

Players to love on the American team:

Tim Howard, goalkeeper and 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup Golden Glove Winner:

Carlos Bocanegra, captain.

Clint Dempsey, who scored the lucky point that tied the game in today's game against England.

Herculez Gomez, who played for the Kansas City Wizards for a time.

Brazil's team is full of amazing players. Notably, star player Ronaldhino does not appear to be a member of the 2010 team. Here are a few of the 2010 team's players.

First, Luis Fabiano, winner of the FIFA Confederations Cup Golden Shoe award last year. 

Next, Robinho, who was chosen by Pelé at a young age as an heir apparent (Can you do that in sports?), will play for the national team in South Africa this year.

Last, Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Liete, or Kaká, is a star player. He is also a philanthropist; he has been involved with the UN World Food Programme since 2004. He is also a model for Armani!

For France, I am watching Thierry Henry:

(and again:)

Patrice Evra (who was born in Dakar, Senegal):

Lastly, I am watching Cote d'Ivoire. More specifically, the unbelievable Didier Drogba. Drogba now plays for Chelsea and is their 7th highest goal scorer of all time. He has been involved in political peace-making in the Ivory Coast and acts as a Goodwill Ambassador for the UN Development Programme.

(and again:)

Have fun watching the 2010 FIFA World Cup. I know I will!