WORLD CUP USA ’94 / THE FIRST ROUND : Spotlight : JUMP ON BOARD

The increased media attention lavished on the U.S. team since Wednesday’s victory over Colombia has been a mixed blessing. While the players and coaches welcome the coverage, they are bemused by the sudden crowd on the bandwagon.

Assistant coach Steve Sampson said he listened to the radio on his way to practice Thursday and heard some new programming.

“It was a station that never, ever talks about soccer,” he said. “They played the highlights of the game and then ‘God Bless America.’ Gimme a break.”