World Cup soccer: Day 1

By Ed Piper

Anyone who knows me knows I'm not a soccer fan or knowledgeable writer about soccer, even though I have covered the La Jolla High girls and boys teams for over a decade. But I do like to stay current, and I began watching Fox's coverage of the men's World Cup yesterday (June 11)--a lot to take in.

Mexico, who I feel somewhat connected to, since I lived in Mexico City for over a year right out of college in my first job after college, put South Africa away in the opener. I can only imagine the fervor, the immense energy, the hopes of average people in Mexico City, in a culture that puts so much emphasis on the sport of soccer.

I'm also aware of the immense hype that Fox and its media ilk pour out for events they have sunk billions of dollars into. "Hype" in my generation meant over-emphasis; hype in the present generation has a positive connotation, building up enthusiasm for a team or school. I mean the former.

In the second game yesterday, I was closely watching the South Koreans as Son, the LAFC player, led them into battle in Guadalajara, 350 miles from Mexico City, the site of the opener, against Czechia. Czechia, averaging 6'3" in height--unusual for soccer--gave them a scare. An interesting note is how lately in media, South Korea is referred to as "Korea", as if the evil empire in North Korea doesn't exist. A political thing, I would guess. Just act like they don't exist.

One other quick thought: I once attended a pro doubleheader of soccer at Estadio Azteca, in the site for Mexico's win. I have the fondest memories. People in the nosebleed seats, where I  bought a ticket, shared snacks and even good food with me as we spent the afternoon on that far upper deck of the stadium. I had such a great experience as a gringo in Mexico. I was in my early 20's (this game was on a return visit to Mexico after I moved back here, as I remember it), I was very engaging, though obviously white and sporting a big beard and longish hair--very different from the Mexican culture. I tried to relate to people honestly, as who I was. I did speak decent Spanish at that time, having lived and studied in the culture. (I also taught Spanish back here in California in short spells as a credentialed teacher.)