The FIFA World Cup is an extraordinary event which began in 1930 and takes place once every four years. The World Cup is the most widely viewed and followed sporting event in the world, exceeding even the Olympic Games; the cumulative audience of all matches of the 2006 FIFA World Cup was estimated to be 26.29 billion with an estimated 715.1 million people watching the final match. It as an epic world battle between to the best that soccer has to offer and nobody should miss out on the action.
Although the United States is not internationally renown for it’s soccer team, it has steadily improved over the past three decades and the world is beginning to take its soccer team seriously. In the 2010 World Cup the United States took first place in their group by drawing with England, a soccer juggernaut of the world. It was an exceptional performance by the U.S. which allowed them to participate in the 16 team tournament. Unfortunately they were eliminated in round one of the tournament by a talented Ghana team, who also eliminated them in 2006.
In 2014 however, the United States looks to have its revenge by facing off against Ghana in its World Cup opener. Ghana is extremely fast and it has a mental edge over the U.S. because of what has occurred in the past two World Cups. It will be an extremely hard fought game and the road only gets more difficult for the U.S. after their battle with Ghana. The other two teams in the United States’ grouping this year are Germany and Portugal, two teams who have dynamic soccer talent and weapons all throughout their roster. This grouping is being referred to as the “Grouping of Death” and although it won’t be easy, the U.S. likes its under dog roll and it hopes to shock the world in 2014.
Perhaps the biggest change to the United States’ roster is that Landon Donovan, the United States captain in 2010 did not make the team in 2014. Instead he has passed the torch to Clint Dempsey who many remember for his exciting goals and plays in the 2010 world cup. The other United States’ super star who will need to play well in order for this team to advance is Jozy Altidore. This is Jozy’s third World Cup and at age 24 he is in his prime and should be ready to shine.
Whether you are a die hard fan of the sport or simply looking to celebrate your country and show your pride, Wisconsin has great places to enjoy the World Cup. Wilson’s Bar and Grill, Coach’s Club Sports Bar and Steakhouse, and Schneid’s Sports Bar & Grill all have an amazing sports environment and delicious beers on tap.