Why the world cares

Soccer is very much like lots of sports. Two teams face off and try and move a ball to the other teams goal; hockey, football and basketball are just 3 examples. These games have been around for thousands of years, and versions are played all over the world. Soccer has flourished for I believe 2 main reasons.

1. The rules are simple and familiar, so it strikes a chord with fans all over the globe.
2. The modern game was formed in England at the height of the British empire and its sailors spread the sport in every port in every continent.

The World cup has been played every 4 years since 1930, with the exception of '42, and '46. In the beginning, the tournament alternated back and fourth between Europe and South America. The host Country held a great advantage, making the final 8 times and winning 6 of them. Only 7 teams have lifted the world cup trophy; Brazil 5 times, Italy 4 times, Germany 3 times, Argentina and Uruguay twice each, and England and France once. The European and South American stranglehold on hosting was broken in 1970 when Mexico hosted, and the event was held in Asia in 2002. This years tournament will be the first one played in Africa. It promises to be a very exciting event. This week I will go over the teams in this years cup and look at each teams chances.

South Africa 2010

The greatest sporting event on the planet is about to begin. Stay tuned as I will be going over all the teams and games. I will aslo give some insight and tips on watching the tournament here in Seattle. I will do my best to respond to all comments and questions.