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Originally Posted by usa1950  I adore soccer/football, the greatest game in the world. Think about this.... the last World Cup Final, in 2006, had MORE worldwide television viewership than the last TEN Super Bowl Games COMBINED.
You cannot deny that it is far and awya the World's most popular sport.
I grew up in St. Louis, one of the hotbeds of American Soccer. I've watched the USA play World Cup Qualifiers or friendly matches 10 times, travelling around the midwest. I have not missed a USA game on TV in more than 10 years..... recording it if I have to. I was at MLS Cup 8, about 15 MLS matches in Chicago or Columbus, OH, NCAA matches, and I watch Liverpool Football Club on TV or online every chance I get. I see 80% of their matches, and of course, all the big ones, Champions League, etc. Fox Soccer Channel is wonderful.
Euro 2008 was a fantastic tournament! I saw at least one match most days. When the World Cup rolls around, I usually take a week of vacation (I get four, so it's not big deal) to take in all the first round games. Love it.
Sure, soccer is not terribly popular in the US, but it is growing. It won't ever surpass the NFL, MLB, NBA, or the big college sports, but soccer fans don't want that, we just want a little more coverage, highlights that are more accessible, a few more matches on TV, etc. MLS teams are building their own stadiums, whic his a great thing. The game is growing, adn it's wonderful to see. |
Great post. I never paid much attention to the UEFA Cup until this year. I will from now on. It was an awesome tournament. Congrats to Spain for winning with class.