Most of my readers are very aware of my love for sports, especially soccer. Sorry, I just can't call it futbol!!! So it will not come to any ones' surprise that I attended four matches. I'm going to take it when I can get it!
One of the main reasons I was looking forward to the event was that Canada was playing, and I knew they had a real shot of qualifying. The other reason? The US women's team was there to compete as well. I had many people asking me "Why are you cheering for the US over Mexico"? I had one answer. They are the best. Arguably, they still are one of the best womens' teams in the world. Period. I used to idolize Mia Hamm, and wish that Canada would be more into women's sports. Don't get me wrong, it's not like I wasn't going to be happy for Mexico if they did well, but I do have my favourites for a reason.
I am very happy to report that the stadiums were full of cheering fans. The first game I watched was Canada vs. Costa Rica. Canada had to win this game to take 1 of the spots, and they did. They were the first team to qualify from CONCACEF. This was a huge moment for them. I had tears in my eyes when I saw them running around, congratulating each other...
The second match I watched was USA vs. Mexico. No surprise the Americans (and I) were outnumbered in the stands. Even the Canadians were cheering for them.... In fairness they didn't want to face USA in the final a few days later. That being said, I was a bit shocked that when the American flag was brought out the crowd starting booing. In all my years of attending these National matches, I've never heard a flag being booed. Players, yes, but countries, no. Wait - it gets worse. When the team came out of the locker room they were booed. Another thing? I'm pretty sure its' customary to stand for the singing of a National Anthem, even if it's not your own? Am I wrong??? Am I the only one who thinks this way?
Most of my friends were in agreement with me that this was wrong. Only one argued with me telling me that this type of behaviour is normal, and not meant to disrespect. Just healthy competition. I don't buy it. I find it to be rude, and ignorant. Obviously the majority of the people there were in agreement with him.
As the game continued the crowd was going crazy, the stadium was packed. The first whistle blew, and gooooal. Mexico scored within the first few moments of the game. As the game went on Mexico was really dominating the match, and the USA didn't look as though they even belonged there. Needless to say they were having a BAD day. Mexico won 2-1 and it was well deserved. I was very happy for the fans, and for their team. They were the second, and last, team to automatically qualify for the World Cup!
I know many people are already aware of who won the tournament and who didn't, but I will have to write a post about that next time as I have some pictures I would like to post with it.
8 comments:
Great picture of you and hubby! I'm a big sports fan too .. Baseball and Ice Hockey! I guess it was good that Mexico won .. or there may have been a hugh fight since US was the underdog.
I don't think that it is acceptable behaviour to boo any team from any country.The only time that "booing" seems acceptable is at cheesy wrestling matches. Did people boo Canada, Costa Rica?
KfromMich - Aww...thank you!!! Yes, sports are awesome!! I'm also a pretty big hockey fan, but don't get to watch the NHL much down here! Only if I make a huuuge effort!! I think had the US won no one would have been surprised, but since Mexico won...they were going crazy!!! They booed Canada when they won the final the other night....not classy :)
Ash - Yeah, well we are in agreement then. I find it to be so ignorant, and disrespectful. They NEVER booed Costa Rica. Only Canada and the US. I'll write a post about the final....shameful!
I went to one of the first games.. US v Honduras, I think. There was almost nobody there (Mexico wasn't playing)
for $5, we got to sit front and center and watch the US play, along with about 50 other people.
I'm saddened but not surprised at the disrespect. In Mexico City, I've heard the fans often throw beer cans onto the field. A little odd, considering how respectful Mexican culture is in most social situations.
I wouldn't be too offended though... I hear Mexicans insult their own team more than any other teams hahaha
I am soccer fanatic! i also am a big believer in good sportsmanship...
looks like you guys had a relly good time. Man I would have loved to gone. Next time. I do agree that the booing was not cool.
PS- I love Mia Hamm too. I was working in a soccer shop in California when these guys were on top form- It was very cool to watch all the young girls come in for posters and stuff.
Gringation - Haha, I heard you say it was dead that game!!! Yeah, the only games that were really busy were when Mexico played! I think that's why they had to charge so little...to get other ppl to show up!!!
I personally believe Mexicans (not all, but most) do have an inferiority complex with Americans. Whether they admit it, or not. To me this is the explanation of disrespect. Now that being said, they did boo Canada after Canada won the tournament, but not at the beginning of the game!!
Kristan - haha, just another thing we have in common amiga :)
Mindy - YES, now that you have a car you can come up for these types of events, YAY!!!!
Mia Hamm is awesome!!! She won women athlete of the year a few times I believe, well deserved :)
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