USA

SOCCER IN THE US Soccer enthusiasm after the 1994 World Cup was short-lived. With Major League Soccer disappointing in both athletic and financial terms, Americans retreated to the usual suspects, “real” football, basketball, and baseball. But the fundamental backdrop for soccer is a good one. The sport has long been one of the top disciplines among pre-high-school children, both male and female. In a big and sports-obsessed country, this talent pool should over time help develop a strong national side. Indeed, largely unnoticed by the public both at home and abroad, the level of play in Major League Soccer has improved markedly, even though fan interest has stayed tepid. This has translated into some success at the international level recently. Last year, for example, the US won the Gold Cup for the second time, beating such formidable foes as Canada, South Korea, and Costa Rica. THE STATE OF THE ECONOMY The recession proved to be short-lived and mild, and expectations for economic performance in 2002 are high. But some of the imbalances that developed during the long boom of the late 1990s, particularly the large current account deficit, remain and could prove troublesome in the future. The World Cup is more relevant to a resolution of these imbalances than commonly realized. If the team were to distinguish itself on the international stage, the huge current account deficit could soon get some help from US players supplementing the nation’s labour income from abroad. THE STATE OF THE NATION After the terrorist attacks of September 11, Americans have shown greater resilience than expected by most. President Bush continues to enjoy sky-high approval ratings, and thewar inAfghanistan seems to be coming to a successful conclusion. With patriotic zeal higher than at any time in recent memory, Americans seem ready to go back to ignoring all international matters, the World Cup included. THE 2002 WORLD CUP After a very poor showing in the 1998World Cup (last place) the US team looks to 2002 to make amends. Gone are the days where Claudio Reyna was forced to carry the team on his back. Instead, a slew of young up-and-comers look to join Mr. Reyna and make their presence felt on the world’s biggest stage. Landon Donovan, Clint Mathis and JoshWolff should open theworld’s eyes to the fact that not only can the US play soccer, but they can do it with style and grace. Adda solid backline and two world-class keepers to choose from and the US looks ready to shed a tough group D draw and move further in the tournament. Previous Appearances: 6 1930, 1934, 1950, 1990, 1994, 1998 Honours Semifinalists: 1930 Hosts: 1994