What I think every American commentator I have heard on the World Cup has missed is that the game goes beyond the occasion.
Look for instance, at tomorrow's Germany v. Poland match. Poland has not won a game against Germany for 85 years. Think about that. EIGHTY-FIVE YEARS.
Worth repeating. Add into the equation that Germany beat up on Poland in the last two World Wars and had a theory of eugenics that suggested that most Poles were sub-human and you have a recipe for a lot of morbo.
Similar situation for the Dutch and the Germans. The Dutch really, really dislike the Germans and when both teams are good (like the '70 and '74 Cups) they are matches to be remembered.
But at least you, good reader, understand all this..
Posted by artandscience at June 13, 2006 06:48 PM