A day like today is what makes the World Cup fun; Must win matches to get to the next round. Lots o’ drama.
Unless you’re living under a rock with no wi-fi, then you know the big match of today is USA v Iran. The Americans need a win to advance, and Iran needs a win or a draw to move on to the next round. Then there is the animosity between our two countries which only heightens the emotions leading to this face off. I really don’t think there is much more insight I can offer, that hasn’t already been shared over the past few days.
For me, I’m approaching this like a fan – I just want my team to win. And that desire creates in me an enjoyable competitive knot in my stomach. I felt this before when the Cubs went down in flames in 2003, or watching the Rangers lose the greatest game ever against the Cardinals in the World Series. But I also felt like this when the Mavericks won it all in 2011. And my insides were so squished together during the rain delay for Game 7 of the 2016 World Series, that I thought I might throw up. But I didn’t because the Cubs came out of the locker room to rally and break the curse.
So, I know that feeling nervous just means that I care about my team, and I want them to win, and it sucks waiting for the match. And it will suck watching the match. And it will suck even more if the outcome isn’t the one I so desperately want.
Boy! This is fun!
UPDATE: The first half went a lot better than I thought it would. Iran looked like they had been knocked back on their heels, and didn’t have an answer to the American attacks. USMNT looks hungry out there, and they aren’t playing wild, just aggressive.
Now, not for a second do I believe that Iran is out of this match. They seem to play better in the second half, and forty-five minutes is a long time. I expect them to put the pressure on by try to out run USA.
I’m nervous but still having fun.
(And if you are having fun easing this blog, show your appreciation by giving it a like. The Holidays are coming and that’s an easy gift to give.)
