Why Do American Soccer Teams Insist On Raising My Blood Pressure?

I don't think Americans need further evidence as to why the FIFA World Cup is one of the most thrilling and uplifting sporting events in human history than last year's mens team's miracle finish against Algeria and today's womens team's unbelievable, improbable, scrappy, determined, and just victory over Brazil today. I feel so sorry for any sports fan that did not witness this match for the ages; highlights won't do it justice. Overcoming (as the men did a year ago) egregious and appallingly horrible calls by the referee and lineswomen (FIFA must take action. Even the British commentator gave up on trying to defend the officials), playing a woman down for nearly an hour of clock time, scoring the latest goal (see Abby "Will To Fucking Win" Wambach above) in World Cup history to tie the game, and converting every penalty kick to eliminate a powerhouse team with one of the world's most gifted players, our women offered a literal display of the meaning of perseverance. We hear the words "testament to the American spirit" thrown around as a fluff line a lot. I can't think of many better ways to demonstrate the true nature of that spirit to the rest of the world than our girls did today on one of the most heralded of stages. When German fans are chanting "U-S-A! U-S-A!" along with those right, white, and blue-faced hooligans, you know you've won more than respect. You've won hearts.

Speaking of winning hearts, congratulations Hope Solo. I'm yours.

Step into the rain: secondrain.blogspot.com