For Whom Our Hearts Beat at the Football World Cup

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the question of who to support resonates, with a clear preference for Austria. However, the excitement extends beyond national loyalties, encompassing a hope for the host nation, the USA, to succeed.

The author, writing for Der Standard, emphasizes that the tournament's atmosphere hinges on the performance of the organizing country. An early exit by the US team could dampen the overall enthusiasm, potentially leading fans to abandon soccer for baseball before the final match in New Jersey.

To ensure a vibrant and engaging World Cup, the piece argues for the necessity of "euphoria" and a sense of "Aufbruchstimmung" (a spirit of optimism and new beginnings). This requires the American public to embrace the sport, understanding that a soccer ball is round, not oval. The author humorously suggests that the Americans need to grasp the fundamentals of the game to fully engage with the tournament.