What in the World Is Wrong With Soccer?

In the wake of the decision to choose Germany for the 2006 World Cup over South Africa, the world has once again proven that no matter how hard people try, the continent of Africa will never be on equal footing with the rest of the world.

If even the recommendation of FIFA President Sepp Blatter was not enough to award South Africa, even with a truly impressive bid put together for the Cup, it clearly indicates that there is a great lack of respect for South Africa and all Africans in general.

I wish not to make this a racial issue, as Africans come in all different colors and shades. The fact is, that South Africa--in light of her dark past--should have been granted this opportunity to make a new name for itself in the 21st century.

FIFA’s decision is not only a dark day for Africa or for the game of soccer, but for the world.

RONALD BRONSON JR.

Belleville, Ill.

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So Italy really whupped the Netherlands, 0-0, in the European soccer championship. Yet again, penalty kicks decide an important soccer game. What a joke. Would we tolerate deciding a tied World Series game by a round of home run derby? Until soccer’s ruling elite change the rules to make goals more likely to be scored in the flow of the game, soccer will never succeed here as a professional spectator sport.

PAUL BERGMAN

Los Angeles