With
all this focus on the World Cup (only like a week left!), one interesting announcement seems to have slipped by most soccer fans. Fear not, “the most important blog of our time” is here to help. Just a few days ago it was announced that the USMNT will host Brazil on Tuesday August 10th at New Meadowlands Stadium. The match is scheduled for kickoff at 8pm and will also be televised on ESPN2.
Here are just a few of my quick thoughts on this game. In my opinion, this match was scheduled for two important reasons. First, the USMNT is expecting to play well in this World Cup. If the second half on the Turkey match is any indication, we could be troublesome match up for many teams. Following a good showing in South Africa with a match against world powerhouse Brazil will hopefully continue the excitement and growth of soccer in the US. Imagine the coverage if Brazil managed to capture
the trophy this summer.
Secondly, and possibly more important is the United States bid to host the World Cup in 2018 or 2022. The New Meadowlands Stadium is one of the 18 locations proposed for hosting the event. This match, along with the recently played friendly between Ecuador and Mexico, are a chance to showcase these new larger stadiums to FIFA. Selling out a stadium that size would demonstrate to FIFA that the US could expand on its already record World Cup attendance from 1994.
Regarding player personnel, it
will be interesting to see who suits up for this match.
I am relatively sure most of the big name players for the US will be playing, as the match is at home. However, whom the Brazilians decide to bring is always a mystery.
Save some PBR for August 10th, I certainly will. Sorry for partying.
Puck likes to drink. He can be reached at puck@yanksarecoming.com.