More than A Game

Fortunately for me, my last few international trips have coincided with international soccer tournaments. Currently, the Asian Cup is in full swing and the games have helped me get through some jet-lagged evenings. What is interesting about these games is that the countries featured are definitely not your traditional soccer powerhouses. Korea and Japan are among the better squads, but its great to watch games featuring Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, or Qatar. (Alas, the Philippines is not represented. I guess if its not boxing or billiards, there is no chance for them to compete. If there were a text messaging competition, the Filipinos would dominate.)

The other night I watch Australia play Iraq while I was at the hotel gym. I was surprised that Iraq was even able to field a squad considering the obvious turmoil happening in their country. Even more surprising was that Iraq defeated Australia 3-1. This was the same Australian team that brought Italy to the brink of defeat in last summer’s World Cup.

I found myself rooting pretty hard for Iraq. For a nation in absolute disarray, I imagine that this game and tournament is one of the only galvanizing events for the country to rally around. I’m not sure how many folks are even able to watch the match, but I’m sure they knew about the result somehow and a tremendous sense of pride that has been stifled for so long came out.

This is definitely one of my favorite things about soccer and these international tournaments. Whatever political, economic, or social disruptions are occurring in their home nation, all is equal on the field. If only for a couple of hours, or even just a few minutes, Iraqis had visible proof that their country had the ability to come together as a single unit and emerge victorious. I’m sure they were quickly returned to reality and the dangers of their daily life, but its gratifying to know that Iraq coverage on the international news included this victory and not simply a death toll or other negative story about the war.