WORLD CUP SOCCER ’94 / THE FIRST ROUND : Spotlight : APPARENTLY, IT’S HOW YOU PLAYED THE GAME

Plucky little United States of America! This gallant little nation battled against the odds, defied the might of Switzerland and drew; took on the overwhelming superiority of Colombia and, incredibly, won. But despite its battling defeat against Romania, this minnow of a country has almost certainly qualified for the round of 16; only a series of truly weird events can prevent it.

This will keep home interest in the tournament alive for another week, which is some kind of result. America’s likely opponents? Brazil or Germany. In one sense, a match against the former would be a perfect result for football; if watching an increasingly impressive Brazil does not give this country a taste for footy, nothing will. But I cannot see America relishing the sight of seeing its team overwhelmed by Brazil and the beautiful game. Can America find the beauty that lies in defeat, especially in defeat by the overwhelmingly superior opponent?