A World Cup Feast
How the World Cup is more than soccer
Dear Mama,
I don’t know if you are keeping up with the World Cup, but if you are, I hope you are enjoying it. Ever since I can remember, my family and I have watched the World Cup. It is the only sports tournament that we keep up with faithfully because it’s so much fun!
The World Cup is so much more than soccer. It is geography, history, culture, religion, and more!
What is the Tournament Like
The World Cup takes place every four years, and for the first time ever, the tournament features 48 countries. This is an expansion from the previous 32 countries. The first round of the World Cup is the group stage, where teams play one another in their group. First and second place move on to the round of thirty-two, and the eight best third places advance. All other teams go home. From the round of 32, move on to the round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, third place, and the final.
Geography
One way I learned geography was by watching the World Cup. This year, I learned about a new country I had never heard of before, Cape Verde, a small island off the coast of Africa. I learned that they speak Portuguese based on the names on their shirts. Then I confirmed it by listening to their interviews.
History
History is always popping up in the World Cup. I don’t mean soccer history, but actual political history and wars. When I was a small child, I learned about the Falklands (Malvinas) War because when Argentina and England play, they boo each other’s national anthems.
Now I’m seeing fun memes of Vikings sailing into England in preparation for the Norway-England match.
Culture
A great way to learn about different cultures without traveling is through the World Cup. I had never heard of the Norwegian row until this World Cup. If you listen carefully, you can hear music and chants from the fans of the countries playing.
Christ
One of the most beautiful things I’ve seen in this World Cup is countries unashamed of giving glory to God. They proclaim Christ, pray before the match, and I’ve even seen some of them pray with team members of the other side after the match. It is truly a beautiful sight. What a wonderful way to minister to others.
Anyway, if you were wondering what all the fuss is about, if you are not a big fan of soccer, no worries, the World Cup is so much more than the sport.
Warmly,
Mirley
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