Nancy Armour's column in USA Today on Wednesday began provocatively enough: "The United States has already lost this World Cup."
It got even more scathing. Armour decried that we are living up to our "ugly Americans" reputation instead of displaying the best of our nation as the international soccer spectacle begins on Thursday. "The U.S. men's national team could make a historically deep run and the tournament could be filled with wondrous goals and compelling games," she wrote. "It will not change the fact that we have shown ourselves to be a hateful and greedy nation, one where leaders are only willing to welcome a world as they want to see it rather than as it exists, and the love of the game is exploited for top dollar. That will be the legacy, and the shame, of this World Cup."
Visa Denials and Security Concerns
In a veiled swipe at the Trump administration, Armour mentioned the hostility to Iran, which has included the denial of visas to key team administrators. The up-in-the-air visa situation and security concerns ultimately forced the team to stay in Tijuana, Mexico, even though its three pool matches are stateside.
Referee Barred and Ticket Gouging
She also noted the "dubious" barring of Somali referee Omar Artan, who would have been the first from his country to officiate in the World Cup. There is also the outrageous ticket price gouging that is keeping out fans of ordinary means.
"The U.S. is supposed to be a World Cup host, not a World Cup bouncer," she added.
A Regretful Conclusion
The column concluded on a regretful note: "[The World Cup] also could have reminded the world of the United States' power for good. We are, in general, a good-natured people, outgoing and approachable. Imagine the impression we could have made, the distrusts and disappointments we could have erased."
Co-host Mexico kicks off the tournament on Thursday against South Africa in Mexico City. The U.S. team will make its debut on Friday against Paraguay in the Los Angeles area.
