World Cup 2022: The U.S. Falls Flat

Following the disappointment of the United States’ failed bid for the 2022 World Cup, I received an e-mail from U.S. Soccer President Sunil Gulati with the subject line “What We Achieved.” Although Sunil and I are tight, I assume a few other U.S. Soccer backers got the same note. With all due respect to the efforts of the U.S. bid committee — they certainly did all they could to bring the World Cup back to America — I have a hard time seeing any positives from the sordid process that awarded the 2018 World Cup to Russia and the 2022 World Cup to Qatar.

I wish I could believe the idealistic viewpoint of Gabriele Marcotti, who says FIFA is spreading the World Cup love around to grow the game throughout the world. That’s a noble thought, but one that’s a tough sell given the process. How does a bid that was judged to put the athlete’s health at serious risk win so handily over the foolproof American candidacy? How does a technically sound English bid garner only one vote besides the one cast by their own FIFA representative? And how can we trust 22 voters when two of their colleagues were eliminated from the process for allegedly taking bribes?

Had FIFA chosen either England or the United States and paired that host with an ambitious bid from Russia or Qatar, I could believe the promoting the global game theory. But surely money-hungry group FIFA must have had other reasons for passing up two jackpot hosts. Grant Wahl claims “that petrodollars talk,” and the pairing of two oil rich nations as hosts back that concept.

So how long must we wait for another World Cup in the U.S.? 2026 is a possibility, but European foes will be in the mix. 2030 is the 100th anniversary of the World Cup, and original hosts Uruguay are striving to put together a joint bid with Argentina in time for the celebration. Just as Atlanta plucked the Centennial Olympics away from Athens, in 1996 the Americans may have the stronger case here. So sit tight. Despite all we have to offer as a World Cup host, it’s going to be awhile.

Will The Game Be In Us?

By this time tomorrow we know which nations will host the 2018 and 2022 World Cup. With one last chance to impress a couple dozen FIFA voters, the United States bid team mixed passion, humility and undeniable strengths into a strong presentation. Now those FIFA's voters must decide if they agree with Morgan Freeman, Landon Donovan, Bill Clinton, and USSF President Sunil Gulati.

Earlier I speculated that FIFA can choose between hosts that will guarantee a financially successful World Cup (England and the United States) or those that represent growth opportunities for the game (Russia and Qatar). The U.S. bid committee successfully showed they are both. American arrogance never plays well on the international stage, so Gulati needed to strike a confident but humble tone. He presented the strengths of the American facilities, infrastructure and television audiences, while positioning the U.S. at the midpoint of a 50-year growth plan. I thought the balance was perfect.

While Gulati focused on the nuts and bolts, the rest of the team showcased the emotional side of the American bid and our unmatched ethnic diversity. Athletes rarely come off as relatable, but when Landon Donovan said attending the World Cup in 1994 had an impact on his life and development as a soccer player, I felt a personal connection. I doubt I would be blogging about soccer today if not for the thrilling experience of attending World Cup games at Giants Stadium 16 years ago.

Clinton's appearance as the political star was made more powerful because he was such a visible backer of the U.S. side in South Africa. Clinton wasn't just reading a script when he spoke of his love of the game; that passion was on display for all to see back in June. I doubt Morgan Freeman's slip-up with the script will cost the U.S. any votes, but if it does he should be sent back to Shawshank Prison immediately. Otherwise his eloquent narration set the tone for a well-paced presentation.

Tomorrow we'll know if it was all worth the effort. Either the way, the United States team should be proud of their performance.

2018 and 2022 World Cups: Which Bids Win?

Almost six months after playing to a 1-1 draw in South Africa, the U.S. and England will again be in the World Cup spotlight Thursday. This time they’re the favorites to land the 2018 and 2022 tournaments. The 2018 race features four European bids, while the United States and four opponents from the Asian confederation vie for the 2022 rights. The same question applies to both elections: Will FIFA choose the safe bets that offer a big payday or will they choose an emerging soccer nation in order to promote the game’s growth?

FIFA boss Sepp Blatter combined the bidding process for the ’18 and ’22 World Cups to create an attractive combo platter for sponsors and television rights holders. But the grab for mo’ money has created mo’ problems. Votes have allegedly been up for sale, two members of the executive committee have been stripped of their voting rights, and the dual election has taken on a “I’ll vote for you if you vote for me” feel reminiscent of high school student council elections. With that background, the race is even more difficult to handicap

England is matched against Russia and joint bids from Spain/Portugal and Holland/Belgium and there’s no doubt an English World Cup would a financial success. But if FIFA is looking to grow the game, Russia is the logical choice. And while a great deal of construction would need to take place between now and 2018, the Russian government is ready to committee the dollars needed.

If FIFA needed a country to step in and host the World Cup next week, America would be ready to go. All those super-sized NFL stadiums and U.S.-based global sponsors represent big bucks for FIFA. And while the U.S. 2022 bid has its drawbacks — the size of the country makes travel difficult and public transportation is limited around many venues — overall America is a risk-free host.

South Korea and Japan shared hosting duties eight years ago, so there’s no reason the World Cup would return as early as 2022. Australia’s bid suffers from limited support from the Aussie Rules Football and Rugby leagues whose seasons conflict with the World Cup. That leaves Qatar as the chief rival to the U.S., and while the Arab nation started as long shots, their bid has gained credibility and momentum. The biggest obstacle for Qatar is the stifling desert heat. But if their committee can convince FIFA voters on their plans to use innovative cooling technology, they could emerge as winners.

My hunch says FIFA will pick one host from the “safe” category and one from the “growth” category. And while backroom dealings could send the votes any number of directions, I can’t see England’s bid falling short. Russia will get a World Cup someday, but the next European hosting cycle is more likely. Does England’s success mean the U.S. gets left out? Not necessarily. But FIFA is giving the 2022 winner 12 years to get ready and Qatar is a nation that would put that time to excellent use. Don’t be surprised if America gets left on the sideline.

My Evening with Bocanegra

These are the cool things that happen when you live across the street from one of America's best soccer bars. The U.S. Men's National Team came to Chicago last week to play Poland in a friendly at Soldier Field. Smart scheduling by the U.S. for a friendly as Chicago has the second largest Polish-speaking population outside of Warsaw. As part of the week, ussoccer.com's online show, Studio 90, taped that week's episode at SmallBar on Division Street, just a Tim Howard goal kick away from my place.

I showed up a few minutes before the taping was set to begin with team captain Carlos Bocanegra and was told that the crew needed people to fill in the seats right behind the desk. Happy to oblige, especially when "filling in the seats" means you're front and center for the whole show. This was a tough break for anyone hoping one of Bocanegra's attractive female fans might occupy that seat, but a real thrill for me. And Bocanegra was nice enough to sign my mini Jabulani after the taping. Thanks to Phil and the crew at SmallBar for hosting a great event.

China Boosts American Position for 2022 World Cup

More good news is emerging as the United States looks to bring the 2018 or 2022 World Cup home. China's Football Association has expressed interest in bidding for the 2026 World Cup. If the bid moves forward, China would be a strong candidate; FIFA would love to bring the world's biggest sporting event to the world's most populous nation.

How does that impact the United States bid? The U.S. is one of five bids for the 2018 World Cup and those five bidders are joined by four others who are vying for the 2022 World Cup. But realistically, there are two groups. The 2018 World Cup will almost certainly go the one of the four European bidders, and that leaves the U.S. competing against Australia, Japan, Qatar and South Korea. With the U.S. facing four Asian opponents (Australia, while not in Asia, joined the Asian Football Confederation in 2006), a looming Chinese bid is bad news for the Eastern quartet. FIFA hasn't awarded consecutive World Cups to the same continent since the 1950's, so Asia has no chance of hosting two in a row. Any FIFA voter who wanted to see the 2026 World Cup go to China wouldn't vote for an Asian candidate in 2022, and there's no place else to send those votes other than to the American bid.

International sports politics take some odd twists and turns, but the U.S. bid and its supporters have to be pleased with this latest development.

World Cup 2010: Round of 16 Previews- June 26

Uruguay vs. South Korea
The Round of 16 begins Saturday in Port Elizabeth as Group A winners Uruguay face Group B runners-up South Korea. The match-up pairs two well-drilled sides agains one another. Uruguay did not concede a goal in three matches against France, South Africa and Mexico, with Diego Forlan contributing two of the team's four goals. South Korea will look to duplicate their semifinal run of eight years ago after a 1-1-1 trip through Group B. A win over Greece was followed by a loss to Argentina and a clinching draw against Nigeria. Lee-Jung Soo leads the teams with two goals.

Look for an early goal from Uruguay to open up the flow of the match. The Koreans will scrap back, but in the end, Uruguay moves on to the quarterfinals.

Prediction: Uruguay 2, South Korea 1

United States vs. Ghana
You might have heard that the United States won a fairly important soccer game Wednesday. Their reward is a trip to Rustenburg and a rematch with Ghana, the squad that KOed them from the 2006 World Cup in the group stages. The Stars and Stripes came from behind twice, drawing with England and Slovenia before posting a 1-0 win over Algeria to win Group C. Ghana finished second in Group D, defeating Serbia and drawing with Australia to earn four points, before falling 1-0 to Germany.

Have Landon Donovan and company put the euphoria of Wednesday's match behind them? With just a two-day break, the opening minutes, always a dicey time for the U.S., will be critical. Survive those, and Bob Bradley's team will find a way to scratch out a win.

Prediction: USA 1, Ghana 0

World Cup 2010: The American Moment

Keeping sporting events like yesterday's U.S.-Algeria match in perspective is always difficult in the immediate aftermath. Reaching the Round of 16 isn't virgin territory for the U.S. and advancing past the group stages was expected, so the historical implications of this match aren't as great as qualifying for the '90 World Cup or advancing to the quarters in 2002. But when you combine the drama of the last two U.S. matches with the way the country has embraced this squad over the past week and a half, American soccer is enjoying an unprecedented moment.

Every four years, lazy sports columnists trot out the tired "Soccer sucks because there isn't enough scoring" piece. Well, if Wednesday's match didn't disprove that cliche, nothing ever will. For 90 minutes, American soccer fans desperately waited for just one goal. Every passing minute and near-miss only raised the tension level. With Algeria offering little in the way of offensive creativity and England locking things down against Slovenia, a lone tally would be enough for Bob Bradley's team.

Into extra time we went, and when Landon Donovan won the match, the tension that had built all morning was released in bars in New York, Atlanta, Portland, Oregon, Las Vegas, Lincoln, Nebraska and Davis, California. (Thanks to Bill Simmons and Deadspin for collecting these clips.) Heck, even the traders on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange had a rare reason to celebrate.

This wasn't the greatest win in U.S. soccer history, but it was a victory that touched more Americans than any previous soccer triumph. When Paul Caligiuri launched American soccer into the modern age by sending the States to the 1990 World Cup, only a handful were watching. More eyeballs were on American soccer yesterday than ever before and the team delivered in the most dramatic way possible. Landon Donovan and his teammates produced an American moment millions will remember forever.

World Cup 2010: Examining the Slow Starting Americans

When America was branded the "Land of Opportunity," I'm not sure the opportunity to score early goals on our national soccer team is what our founding fathers had in mind. If the sight of an opposing player celebrating a first-half tally against the Stars and Stripes looks familiar, that's because the U.S. has made a nasty habit of conceding earlier markers. Let's take a look at some of the frustrating statistics.

-Going back to 2002, the U.S. has allowed the opponent to open the scoring with a first-half goal in its last six World Cup group stage games. In four of those six matches, they gave up two first-half goals. Not surprisingly, none of those matches ended with a win.

-Those goals have a tendency to come very early- two goals in the first five minutes against Poland in 2002; a fifth minute goal against the Czech Republic to start the 2006 World Cup; and Steven Gerrard's fourth minute tally for England earlier this month.

-Since 1990, the U.S. has conceded 19 first-half goals in 17 group stage matches.

-The last time the U.S. shut out an opponent in the group stages? The famed 1-0 win over in England in 1950. The last 18 U.S. group stage opponents have all scored.

It should be noted that one match breaks the mold; a 2-0 win against Mexico in the Round of 16 eight years ago. In that match it was Brian McBride scoring in the eighth minute as the U.S. defeated their arch rivals.

Two encouraging signs to the trends noted above: the U.S. has managed to draw three of its last four World Cup matches despite surrendering the first goal. Prior to that, they had lost eight consecutive World Cup matches when giving up the first goal. And if ever there was a team ready to blanketed by a clean sheet, it's Algeria. The Desert Foxes haven't scored a goal in their last four World Cup matches. If Tim Howard and company can extend that steak to five, the U.S. should be on its way to the Round of 16.

World Cup 2010: Breaking Down the Groups- Part 1

32 group stage games down, 16 to go. As we head into round three of matches, 30 of 32 teams still have a chance to reach the knockout stages. Those teams range from a 2-0 side in precarious position to an 0-2 side with a very realistic chance to advance. Let's breakdown the scenarios and my predictions, starting with Groups A-D.

Group A
Standings: Uruguay- 4 points, +3 goal differential; Mexico- 4 pts., +2; France- 1 pt., -2; South Africa- 1pt., -3
Match-ups: Uruguay vs. Mexico; South Africa vs. France
The situation: Uruguay are part of the South American juggernaut that has eight wins and two draws in ten matches. Diego Forlan is one of the emerging stars of the Cup with two goals in the win over South Africa. While a draw guarantees both sides advance, Mexico will want to avoid a second round meeting with Argentina, so look for El Tri to go on the attack. If there's any justice, the French collection of prima donnas will get blasted by South Africa. The hosts will likely miss the knockout stages, but a well-deserved win would allow them to finish on a high,
Prediction: Mexico wins to top the group as Uruguay holds on to second.

Group B
Standings: Argentina- 6 pts.; +4; South Korea- 3 pts.; -1; Greece- 3 pts., -1; Nigeria- 0 pts., -2
Match-ups: Argentina vs. Greece; South Korea vs. Nigeria
The situation: 0-2 may seem like a bleak position, but Nigeria are surprisingly in good shape to advance. A win over South Korea coupled with a Greece loss to Argentina will see three teams tie for second at 1-2. Regardless of the scores on Tuesday, Nigeria are ensured of winning the goal differential tie-breaker. Argentina need only a draw to lock-up the top spot, and it's hard to see them failing to capture a point.
Prediction: Argentina take first and Nigeria sneak in behind them.

Group C
Standings: Slovenia- 4 pts., +1; USA- 2 pts., E; England- 2 pts. E, Algeria- 1 pt., -1
Match-ups: Slovenia vs. England; USA vs. Algeria
The situation: It's win and advance for Slovenia, the U.S. and England, while Algeria needs a win and some help from England to move on. Oddly the fourth-place side is the only one entering their match on a positive note. Slovenia coughed up a two-goal lead to the U.S., a match the Americans left thinking they should have won. Meanwhile England are just grateful that the French are in town, otherwise they'd be the poster children for team disharmony and underachievement.
Prediction: A pair of 2-0 wins sees the U.S. and England advance, with the States topping the group on the second tiebreaker, goals scored.

Group D
Standings: Ghana 4 pts., +1; Germany 3 pts., +3; Serbia 3 pts., E; Australia 1 pt. -4
Match-ups: Ghana vs. Germany; Serbia vs. Australia
The situation: A quick look at the standings, and you'd say Group D leaders Ghana are Africa's best hope of reaching the knockout stages. They might, however, face a tougher task than winless Nigeria. The Black Stars will need at least a point against Germany to ensure passage. If they lose, Serbia will pass them with a win over Australia. While a win advances any of the top three teams, only Ghana are assured of moving on with a draw. Australia needs to show that it can play without getting a star player red carded, following the dismissals of Tim Cahill and Harry Kewell in their first two matches.
Prediction: Germany plays like, well, Germany and gets the win to put them on top of the group. Serbia join them in the second round.

World Cup 2010: High Stakes for Team America

Coaches like to say the biggest game on a team's schedule is the next one. That mantra is especially true in the case of Team USA. On the heels of a hard-earned draw in the most anticipated match in American soccer history, the U.S. has put themselves in good shape to make the tournament a memorable one. But as a result of Slovenia's 1-0 win against Algeria, Bob Bradley's men have no room for error against the group leaders. A win and the knockout stages are in sight; another draw isn't ideal, but isn't devastating either. But should the U.S. fall to a team they're widely expected to handle, the Stars and Stripes will likely be heading home early.

The collection of U.S. forwards features names that no one expected to see in South Africa six months ago. If you asked anyone around Christmas, Robbie Findley, Herculez Gomez, and Edson Buddle were as likely to make the roster as Tab Ramos and John Harkes. But not only are they on the squad, they could be the surprise heroes the States need against Slovenia. Top teams get contributions from unexpected sources; anything these men can add to the contributions of Donovan, Dempsey and Altidore would go along way in getting the squad three critical points.

Defensively, America's confidence is high after a stellar performance from Tim Howard against England. While his bruised ribs are cause for concern, his game-saving stops left the Three Lions jealous. Slovenia's offense was far from threatening against Algeria and only a late red card and some horrendous goalkeeping allowed them to score. This has every opportunity to be the States' first World Cup clean sheet since their 2-0 Round of 16 win over Mexico in 2002.

If the U.S. is to claim victory tomorrow, they'll need to avoid one of their disturbing World Cup trends- conceding early goals. In their last four World Cup matches dating back to 2006, the U.S. has surrendered a goal within the first 22 minutes; twice those scores have come in the opening five. If they put the clamps down on Slovenia early and often, three points will be theirs.

World Cup 2010: What We've Seen So Far

With one round plus one game of the group stages complete, it's a good time to take a look at South Africa 2010. While the buzz of the vuvuzleas and the lack of scoring have dominated the conversation, a number of other compelling story lines are emerging.

South America is deep: Brazil and Argentina always grab the headlines, but this year's teams from South America are as talented as any in recent memory. Paraguay showed their grit in a 1-1 draw with Italy, while the skills of Diego Forlan earned Uruguay four points in their first two matches. Throw in Chile's win against Honduras, and the CONMEBOL teams have four wins and two draws in six matches.

Something crazy could go down in Group H: Since 1986, when the World Cup adopted the current group stage followed by 16-team bracket format, five points has always been enough to get a team to the knockout phases. Following Switzerland's upset of Spain, there's a strong possibility that a team with six points could be KOed. If Spain wins its next two matches (vs. Chile and Honduras) and Switzerland tops Honduras but then falls to Chile, Spain, Switzerland and Chile will all be level on points. It may come down to who puts the biggest thumping on poor Honduras.

African sides are headed for disappointment: Despite strong local support, the tournament has not started well for the African teams, with Ghana's win over Serbia the lone victory in seven tries. The home team kicked off the tournament with a flourish, but Bafana Bafana failed to seal a win against Mexico, and their 3-0 loss to Uruguay all but assured they'll be the first hosts not to advance past round one. Ivory Coast's 0-0 draw against Portugal was one of the tournament's letdown matches.

Strikers are struggling: Is it the infamous Jabulani ball? Is it the altitude? Perhaps a little of both. Regardless, the goal scoring fireworks have been in short supply in South Africa, with an alarming number of corner kicks and set pieces sailing well off the mark. Only the bumbling goalkeeping has offset an offensively challenged tournament.

A 1-0 match can be a thriller: While the lack of scoring brings out the soccer cynics, Switzerland and Spain proved you don't need goals galore to entertain. Switzerland's stunning goal turned what looked like a one-sided contest into the tournament's most exciting match so far. Anytime the underdog takes a lead and scraps to hold on, we see the game at its best. With both teams striking the post late in the match, these two European sides held our attention.

Germany's 4-0 win gives us a good World Cup conspiracy theory: In the first round of games, only one team cracked three goals, let alone four. The theory? The Germans had more time to practice with the Jabulani ball made by Adidas, a company based in... wait for it... Germany! Never mind the fact that Germany doubled the scoreline once Australia's top offensive threat, Tim Cahill, was shown the red card.

USA are looking A.O.K.: Earning a point against England was important not for the historical significance, but for how it sets Bob Bradley's team up for the next two games. A win and a draw against Slovenia and Algeria would give the U.S. five points and should see them through to the next round. (Although there's a scenario where they could be left out in a three-way tie). But the States should aim higher; if they can win the group, they'll dodge Germany in the Round of 16. Expect the U.S. to play an attacking style in the hopes of winning both matches and topping England on goal differential.

World Cup 2010: Group C Preview

The four squads in Group C are split between those expected to advance- England and the United States, and those looking to spring an upset- Algeria and Slovenia. With the favorites kicking off in one of the tournament's most anticipated matches, the group's pecking order should be established early. Here's a closer look.

Expectations are sky high for England and that's not necessarily a good thing. An impressive qualifying run under Fabio Capello washed away the stench of failing to advance to Euro 2008, and now the Three Lions are a trendy dark horse pick. Unfortunately the weight of a nation's desperate expectations often hamper England, especially when it comes to the dreaded shootout. Up front, the English feature veteran firepower with Premier League rivals Wayne Rooney, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard. The defense has been gutted by injuries, the most recent to captain Rio Ferdinand, and goaltending is never an English strength. Don't be surprised to see England in some high scoring contests, but if the goals are coming from Rooney and Co., Capello's men will advance easily.

The trend following the United States since their return to the World Cup in 1990 points towards a positive tournament in 2010. The Yanks have alternated between disastrous showings in Europe and knockout round appearances elsewhere. With the experience gained reaching last year's Confederations Cup Final, the team should feel comfortable in South Africa. Bob Bradley's side have a disturbing habit of coughing up leads. Last summer they lead in games against Italy, Spain, Brazil and Mexico, but lost three of the four. Team spark plug Landon Donovan knows that this tournament could define his career after a strong showing with Everton and if he can connect with a healthy Jozy Altidore up front, we'll see the Stars and Stripes into the round of 16 once again.

Slovenia are hoping to continue the run of play that saw them top Russia in the European qualifying playoffs. Serie A-based goalkeeper Samir Handanovic has a habit of frustrating opponents, something he'll need to do for a team that has struggled when falling behind. If the talented Rene Krhin and Nejc Pecnik come of age in South Africa, Slovenia are best suited to upset the England-U.S. party.

There's no shortage of major European club experience on the Algeria roster, but scoring goals will be a challenge for the Desert Foxes, one of the final qualifiers from Africa. Inconsistent results heading into the World Cup leave Rabah Saadane's men hoping for a repeat of their stunning 1982 upset of West Germany.

Prediction: There's no reason to think that England and the U.S. won't both advance, and the winner of their opening match will be positioned for a deep run. Recent head-to-head results favor the English, who should sweep the group, further raising those always burdensome expectations.

Soccer Conquers America

Unfortunately my day job keeps me from spending all my time writing here, but I did manage to squeeze in a World Cup post on my company's blog today. You can check it out on the Zeno Group blog, Acropolis, or just read it below.

Originally posted at Acropolis
The year was 1990 and for the first time in 40 years, the United States soccer team was headed to the World Cup. Most of the nation reacted with a collective shrug of indifference. Soccer was best known in the U.S. as a game played by little kids or dismissed as the cause of rampant hooliganism in Europe. Fast forward to 2010. Those little kids are all grown up and so is America’s passion for “the beautiful game.”

As a lifelong soccer fan, I’m amazed by the progress the sport has made in this country. Sitting on my desk right now is a “Special Double Issue” World Cup preview magazine. Not World Soccer or Sports Illustrated, but Time, a sure sign that soccer has arrived on mainstream America’s radar.

In 1990, cable network TNT broadcast selected World Cup matches, committing the cardinal sin of breaking away for commercials in the middle of a game. Now every tournament game will air on ABC, ESPN or ESPN2 without commercial interruption. While the voice of Bono graces ESPN’s ad campaign, Brad Pitt has signed on to help promote the United States’ bid to host an upcoming World Cup. Perhaps you’ve heard of these guys.

A handful of factors have elevated soccer’s standing in the U.S. The Internet and expanded cable television has brought a global game into our living rooms. The generation that launched America’s youth soccer boom in the early ’80s has come of age, now taking their kids to watch an American pro league that has made solid strides in 14 years. And as U.S. companies like McDonald’s, Coca-Cola and Anheuser-Busch have embraced a global marketing strategy, they’ve learned that sponsoring with the world’s most popular game is a powerful platform.

Will soccer ever be king in this country? Don’t count on it. The world’s richest, most prestigious leagues aren’t leaving Europe anytime soon, nor is America’s passion for the NFL showing any sides of slowing. But in 20 years, soccer has emerged from obscurity to a place of prominence in American culture. I can wait to see what the next month- and the next 20 years- bring to the sport.

World Cup Draw Winners and Losers

The field is set for South Africa 2010. With the unique drama of today's World Cup draw complete, here's my take on the winners and losers.

Winner- USA: Most pundits will pick the US to advance from Group C. England are obviously the group favorites, but with Algeria, the last qualifier from Africa, and Slovenia, one of Europe's surprise entries rounding out the group, Bob Bradley's men have a clear path to the knockout stages.

Loser- South Africa: While the hosts got the benefit of a one seed, that distinction was negated by drawing France, a side many saw as worthy of the top row. With Mexico and Uruguay also in Group A, the home side will struggle to advance.

Winner- Germany: Germany's advantage isn't so much their manageable group, which includes Australia, Serbia and Ghana, but in the way the knockout stages shape-up. Italy, Holland, Brazil, Portugal and Spain all reside on the opposite side of the bracket, meaning Germany would avoid those top sides until at least the semifinals.

Loser- Ivory Coast: Four years ago Didier Drogba and crew landed in the Group of Death, with their first two matches against Argentina and Holland. The 2010 draw did them no favors either, with Brazil and Portugal in the mix. They may be eliminated at 0-2 by the time they face a beatable North Korean side.

Winner- Charlize Theron: A gorgeous addition to the dais, Theron hasn't looked this good since the movie Reindeer Games. Let's hope we see more of the South African native come next June.

Loser- David Beckham: Beckham's inclusion on stage was odd, given his checkered history at the World Cup. I suppose he was up there for his celebrity status and boyish good looks. That's fine, but if you're playing the role of eye candy, don't show up with a mohawk.

Winner- Spain: The reigning European champs cruised through qualifying with a perfect mark. That record should continue in a group that includes lightly regarded Switzerland, Chile and Honduras.

Loser- Korea: Both North and South landed in the two toughest groups. South Korea are joined by Argentina, Nigeria and Greece in Group B, while their Northern neighbors face Brazil, Ivory Coast and Portugal in Group G.

Winner- Ticket scalpers: The highest demand for tickets during the initial sales period came from the US and England. The brokers will make a pretty penny when those two sides meet on June 12.

Loser- Attendees at my brother's wedding: Unfortunately that USA-England match kicks off one hour before my brother is slated to get married. He still has six months to alter the schedule.

Sochaux and Milan: A Tale of Two Clubs

AC Milan are one of the most storied sides in Europe, but they could take a lesson in class from mid-table French side Sochaux. The tragic car accident involving rising US star Charlie Davies and the awful injury to defender Oguchi Onyewu during last week's World Cup qualifier revealed the true colors of the two players' domestic sides.

While a fatal car accident put Davies' promising career in jeopardy in the early morning hours last Tuesday, there was concern from France for Davies as a man, not as an individual on a roster. Washington Post soccer writer Steven Goff had the reaction from Sochaux's president Alexandre Lacombe: "We are all in shock. The American federation was exemplary and informed us of all the events. Regrettably, his dream of South Africa has gone away and his career might be in danger. All our thoughts at FC Sochaux are with Charlie." Beyond the thoughts from the team's boss, photos from Sochaux's 2-0 upset of Lyon Saturday show that Charlie was an inspiration to his teammates and fans in victory.

Onyewu tore his patellar tendon on a non-contact play late in the 2-2 draw against Costa Rica. Rather than expressing sympathy for their player, less than 24 hours after his injury, Milan brass were demanding financial reparations. Never mind the fact that Onyewu has barely seen the pitch at the San Siro, Milan's Adriano Galliani wasn't worried about losing a defender as much as he was making a shameful demand for money. It's not the first time an AC Milan player has played for his national side and probably not the first time one has been injured in those matches. The fact that the Rossoneri would act in such a manner is as absurd as it is insulting. They'd do well to follow the lead set by Sochaux.

And on a personal note, let me add my best wishes to Charlie and Oguchi for speedy recoveries. While Guch's situation is sad, Charlie needs our thoughts and prayers most of all. Get well soon, Charlie!

USA World Cup 2018/2022: Who Will Be Hosts?

If there's one undeniable strength of the USA's bid to host the 2018 or 2022 World Cups, it's our stadiums. You want big facilities? We got 'em. Lots of 'em. There are enough venues in this country to host three World Cups at the same time. With the US bid due next May, today the committee narrowed the list of potential venues down to 32 stadiums in 27 markets.

In April the committee contacted 70 venues to gauge interest. While the efforts to include the entire country were noble, it was unrealistic to think World Cup games would be coming to Lincoln, Nebraska or Baton Rouge, Louisiana. In June requests for formal proposals went to 45 stadiums in 37 markets. (Note to US Soccer: Someone please fix the typo in the headline of that article. "Porposals?") Following the RFP process we have the 27 remaining cities announced today.

The final tournament will most likely include a dozen stadiums as hosts, so here's my take on which 12 US venues would make the best choices in 2018 or 2022.

The Locks
Soldier Field (Chicago), Cowboys Stadium (Dallas), New Meadowlands Stadium (New York): Giants Stadium hosted one of the two semifinals in 1994, and the new stadium would be among the favorites to host the Final this time. Jerry Jones new monstrosity in Arlington is getting rave reviews, with a Super Bowl and Final Four already on the way. The seating capacity could be expanded to 100,000 for the World Cup. And while 61,000 seat Soldier Field would be among the smaller venues, there's no way Chicago isn't on the list.

The Near Locks
Georgia Dome (Atlanta), Gillette Stadium (Boston), Reliant Stadium (Houston), Qwest Field (Seattle), FedEx Field (Washington): Atlanta isn't known as a soccer town, but the city's experience with the Summer Olympics and the number of flights to and from South America and Hartsfield Airport make Atlanta a logical pick. Houston also has experience with big events and a huge airport to handle crowds. Seattle's enthusiastic response to MLS shows it's one of America's soccer hotbeds, while the Boston area has long supported the game. The only thing keeping FedEx Field off the list of "locks" is the thought that M&T Bank Stadium in near-by Baltimore might get the nod instead due to its downtown location, but the Beltway region will certainly be included in some way.

The California Question Marks
Rose Bowl (Los Angeles), Stanford Stadium (San Francisco): LA and the Bay Area will definitely be hosts, but the question is which stadiums will do the hosting. Issues regarding proposed NFL venues have dogged both regions for over a decade. Recent talk centers around a new 49ers home in Santa Clara, and a stadium in City of Industry designed to lure the NFL back to SoCal. Neither of those are on the current list. Will these projects come to completion? Who knows. For now I'll pencil in the Rose Bowl and Stanford Stadium.

The Last Two In
Lucas Oil Stadium (Indianapolis), Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia): One of the disadvantages to a US World Cup bid is that the size of the country makes it more difficult for fans and players to travel from city to city. To overcome the issue, clustering host cities close together works well. With that in mind, Indy and Philly are my last two selections. Indianapolis is a dark horse, but the city has earned strong marks as a frequent Final Four host and in 2012 gets the Super Bowl. Plus it's just a three-hour drive from Chicago. Situated between New York and Washington, Philadelphia could be part of a "Soccer Express" train taking fans from Boston, New York, Philly and Washington.

Who's Left Out?
The heat of Orlando and Dallas' Cotton Bowl aren't fondly remembered by anyone who played in or attended the 1994 World Cup, so outdoor venues in the Sunshine State are off the list. Games in 108,000 seat Michigan Stadium sound like a cool idea, but anyone who's ever been to Ann Arbor knows that would be a logistical nightmare. Charlotte is a great soccer town and could be a nice pick over Indy, but doesn't have the reputation for hosting big time events.

Finally, I was surprised to see New Orleans not make the cut today. The Big Easy has long been a popular Super Bowl and Final Four venue because of the compact downtown area, including hotels, tourist attractions and the Superdome. On the other hand, setting a group of international soccer fans loose on Bourbon Street might not be the smartest idea, so this could be for the best.

The Sports Guy and Soccer: Together Again?

Fans of ESPN.com columnist Bill Simmons, aka "The Sports Guy," may remember his short-lived dalliance with the English Premier League three years ago. In the lengthy but entertaining style that is his trademark, Simmons analyzed the pros and cons of supporting all 20 EPL teams, counting them down in reverse order. In the end he selected Tottenham over Liverpool, promising to cheer on the London outfit through the upcoming season.

And that was the end of that. Other than a couple passing mentions, Simmons was never heard from again on the topic of the Premier League. But now his interest in the game appears to be on again.

Apparently inspired by a visit to last week's USA-Mexico World Cup qualifier at the Estadio Azteca (a great column if you haven't already read it,) Simmons was tweeting about Sunday's Liverpool-Tottenham game, a meeting of his top two squads from the '06 search.

A couple thoughts here. Simmons, one of ESPN.com's most popular columnists, is hopping back on the Premier League bandwagon at the same time that his employer landed the rights to air games in the States. Coincidence or the latest example of the ever-present integration of ESPN properties? My hunch is it's the latter.

Second, in his column Simmons states that Steven Gerrard was "ridiculously, dominantly good in so many different ways," Sunday against Tottenham. Other than a well-taken penalty kick, this was far from one of Gerrard's finer afternoons. Just wait until Simmons watches Stevie G bringing his A-game.

So will the Sports Guy's burgeoning interest in soccer take root this season? We'll have to wait and see. But Bill, if by some chance you read this blog, feel free to join us at The Globe (rated by ussoccer.com as the "Best Soccer Bar in America," to watch some games if you're ever in Chicago.

USA World Cup Bid Gets Social

As the bid process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups continues, the US efforts have been unveiled on a sharp yet simple Web site that highlights the movement to return the World Cup to the States for the first time since 1994.

As you'll see on the site, the folks behind the bid are rolling out all the top social media tools like Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Flickr to bring the campaign to life. Such contemporary thinking on behalf of the US bid team is very encouraging. And if you support the bid, there's a free bumper sticker in it for you!

Confederations Cup: Pain for Spain?

Spanish fans have no reason to panic following the team's third-place finish at the Confederations Cup. The reigning European champs were knocked off in the semis by a scrappy US squad and were less than impressive against South Africa in the third-place game, but one loss in 37 matches shouldn't impact their standing as favorites heading into next year's World Cup.

But from a strategical standpoint, the question should be asked: did the US write the book on how to beat Spain? The States' well-executed strategy of pushing the Spaniards to the flanks and forcing chip-ins by clogging up the middle will be replicated by future opponents.

So where does Spain go from here? Will the loss serve as a motivator or dent their confidence? From a confidence standpoint, a loss to the US was probably less damaging than if La Roja had fallen to Brazil in the Final. Spain knows on their best day they can beat teams like the US. A defeat against Brazil may have left them with more internal questions. We won't learn much from upcoming World Cup qualifiers; Spain are cruising against lesser foes. Next summer's World Cup will show if Spain and their opponents are ready to apply lessons learned in South Africa.

Confederations Cup: A Silver Lining for the States

There was something meaningful about the tears in Client Dempsey's eyes following the United States' 3-2 loss to Brazil in today's FIFA Confederations Cup Final. The US came to this tournament eyeing experience; both with the host venue for next year's World Cup and against some of the top opponents on the planet. But when the final was over, Dempsey's emotion reflected a team that wasn't satisfied with valuable lessons and moral victories. This was a squad that came agonizingly close to capturing a first-ever FIFA tournament and the fact that there were no smiles over second speaks to how far this US squad came over the past two weeks.

While the second half of the match was a cruel stomach punch to US players and fans, there is much to be proud of and excited about heading into 2010. Most encouraging was the play of Dempsey and Landon Donovan. The criticism both players have faced is the by-product of their great potential. In South Africa, that potential was fully realized; their goals today were the types of world-caliber strikes that have too often been missing from the US team. Tim Howard's play in the tournament, paired with the experience he gains playing in the Premier League, shows the States will have a top notch goaltender to call on next summer.

The expectations will be raised for next year's World Cup. So much depends on the draw and the opponents the USA will face, but as of today, a repeat of the 2002 run to the quarterfinals appears very doable. Perhaps there will be even more. The win over Spain and the near-miss against Brazil proves the US can beat anyone in the knockout stages of a tournament.

As the second-place US team took the podium, I was reminded of a Bill Murray line from Caddyshack: "Silver medals...on their chests. These men are...America's best." We should celebrate their achievements, but Dempsey's tears should remind us that greater prizes lay unclaimed.