Washingtonpost.com: Live Online

Was Italy robbed in the Italy-Croatia game? What happened to France and Argentina? After beating neighborhood rival Mexico, could Team USA go all the way? Or is this finally England's year? What about the intrepid Senegal? And has Brazil awakened from its brief slumber? One things's for sure, it's the most exciting tournament in recent memory.

Whatever's on your mind about the World Cup or football, this is your home for the next hour.

Submit your questions and comments before or during today's discussion.

Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.

washingtonpost.com: Okay.

Desson Howe: [Sound of whistle blowing] We're on. We're talking about the world's greatest game. The beautiful game. The World Cup. Tell me what's on your mind? I'll tell you one thing, the Italians have been treated very unfairly by ref decisions. That's a real hot issue, I think, for one. What else is on your mind? We're getting closer now to the quarter finals. The ante is up. Many of the big teams are out. Exciting huh?

Soccer Neophyte... : Can the U.S. beat Germany? I was all set to refight WWII, but then South Korea goes and knocks off Italy. Which is a good thing, I guess. What are the chances we might see the US of A in the final?

Desson Howe: Hey Soccer Neo. If this World Cup (WC for future ref) shows us one thing it's this: no giant is safe. The Germans are nervous, I can tell you that. They are swallowing. Choking. No matter what they might say. The USA is on a roll. What a game it could be.

Arlington, Va.: After watching the Brazilians struggle so much with the Belgians (!) I figure England have a good chance of winning. Who would the English rather face in the semis, Turkey or Senegal? Is Senegal the biggest surprise so far? No one had heard of these guys before this tournament. I think that's a bigger story than the U.S., personally.

Desson Howe: Senegal were in the finals of the African tournament. It's not a huge secret that they have skills and potential. I'm happy for them. So yes, it's a big story. But you can';t get this far without knowing what to do with a ball.

At Work In Horrendously Developed Tysons Corner: Desson -

Is it true that there will be a live showing of the US/Germany game at RFK on Friday?

Desson Howe: I hope so. It would be nice if you could see the U.S. play in its own country, huh?

Washington, D.C.: 3 Quick ones:

- What do you think is the single best place (any bar, home, whatever) to watch the World Cup?

- Is there any soccer fan out there who actually prefers the inane wannabe catch phrase-athon of ESPN's coverage above the psychotic and entertaining screams of Univision announcers?

- Who thought to let a movie critic host a soccer chat?

Thanks.

Desson Howe: The best place to watch the WC is with a crowd that roots for your team. Duh. But which places? If you want to watch at 2:30 in the morning you have little choice but to see it in Summers. That's the soccer bar in Arl. Va on N Courhouse rd. But any other time, the best bar is the Lucky Bar. They're football fans there not just businessmen.

Anyone who likes ESPN inanity over the Spanish language broadcast (even if they don't speak Spanish) is missing the passionate approach to soccer. I don't speak Spanish (although I have learned many choice words to impart on the soccer field when I get fouled). But I'd rather hear someone who's into the game and passionate than the muppets on ESPN.

I'm a movie critic second, a soccer fan first.

Capitol Hill, D.C.: I'm glad you brought up the issue of refereeing up front. In general, it seems that there have been a plethora of bad calls in these games, more than before. Should FIFA think of adding another referee (like ice hockey has done) -- maybe the field is just too big for one ref to handle. It's a shame when games are decided by bad calls.

Desson Howe: I just think refs should be better. They should be professionals, for one thing, instead of amateurs. I think it would make a huge difference. We don't need another ref, justbetter ones.

Herndon, Va.: What is the reaction from your friends back home to the U.S. run this Cup?

Desson Howe: Everyone's very happy for the U.S.. After all, there's a special US-UK relationship. And I think most of the world roots for the underdog. And USA has really done well.

Detroit, Mich.: The attendance in WC USA 94, per game and the total attendance, was the highest in WC history even in comparison with WC Brazil 50, yet, soccer does not get attention from the media, I think that is not natural but rather it is reflection of the intentional resistance from the businesses that benefit from the other sports because they fear that soccer will take away business from them.
I would like to hear your response, please.

Desson Howe: America is softening. But I think the biggest problem is that sports writers in America haven't grown up with soccer. And they have a cultural bias against it. It seems to really threaten them. They can't spout their stats because they don't know 'em. And they're too embarrassed to exhinbit what they don't know, so they take this tack of knocking the sport. It's old. It's tiresome. They're supposed to be sports writers. Get over it, I say. Do your job.

Washington, D.C.: Hey,
I want to know what happend to Mexico? How could it loose so badly after playing so well?
Thanks,
SoccerFAN

Desson Howe: Soccer's like that. America beat them fair and square, because they scored two goals and the Mexicans didn't score any. That's what it comes down to, no? Yes, Mexico dominated the field play. But the USA knew how to play them. Could have gone the other way. But it didn't.

Cemterville, Va.: So, was the cutting of Ahn by the club in Perugia because Ahn scored the winner for S. Korea the pettiest thing ever?

Desson Howe: Yes, incredibly pathetic. And against the spirit of soccer. But I understand Italians being very frustrated with the way they were kicked out of the WC.

Crystal City, Va: Hi Desson,

I have to work on Friday, but I want to try and get a bit of the U.S. vs. Germany game. Do you know of any places within the Underground or nearby that will be showing the game? Thanks a lot.

Desson Howe: Not me. Anyone else?

Arlington, Va.: Can you answer this? How come the rest of the world calls the game football and the U.S. is the only one that calls it soccer?

How come we call American football "football" when the ball never touches the foot except in field goal kicks?

Desson Howe: Two of the many eternal questions!

NYC: FIFA needs to use more than a single referee. There is no way that the ref could even see if Totti was flopping or just falling after a tiny touch (which he was) because he was so far away. Surprising that they missed O'Brien's handball too, but...

I'd like to see Germany AND Brazil taken out. I don't know about England; they've been rather quiet and not bragging and arrogant. I respect that.

Desson Howe: I like what you say about England, of course. Football has two lines officials to help the ref. That should be enough in my humble opinion. I think two refs could pose more problems. That's two chances at getting a moron!

NYC: Italy needs to suck it up and stop being such whiners. The foul on Totti was a bit suspect and maybe the offsides call in a previous game; but Totti had been flopping through the first round and he finally had to pay. I can't believe that the Perugia team-owner is so angry with Ahn that he's now firing him for beating Italy. That's ridiculous. Italy has not played up to par. Bye bye.

Mexico has been doing a lot of whining too, but now they are out. I'm sure the friendlies between the U.S. and Mexico in the future will be even less friendly.

Germany-USA. Tough game. The Germans are huge AND mean, fighting, and fouling. I have not enjoyed a single one of their games. I don't hold out much hope for the USA, but I hope they can win decisively in regulation time.

Desson Howe: Thanks for your comment. I can understand your POV. I'm an English fan but I feel the Italians were robbed in the Croatia game. And that card Totti got was unnecessary. On the other hand, a ref can only do what he can do in the heat of the moment. When I saw it live I thought he had take a dive too. And it took slow motion to see the truth. A ref doesn't have that benefit.

Crystal City: Desson -- do you think the long season endured in Europe, with all their various European competitions, domestic cups and the like, is a factor is why many European "powers" are out of the cup? U.S and Korea for one don't have many players on the roster in Europe. Thanks.

Desson Howe: From what I understand the Koreans have been non-stop training for months and yes, they haven't had the gruelling schedule of the Europeans. But still, they've done incredibly well. The US does have European players in the squad who are key players.

Charlottesville, Va.: Is Brad Friedel always this good, or did he really turn it up?

Desson Howe: He's good. He's been good in the English premier. But he's on a special roll this time, I think.

Crystal City: To the other Crystal City worker - The Cedar Deli in Century II (Heitman Building) has been showing the games. 10 mins walk or so from the underground.

Desson Howe: Thanks!

Washington, D.C.: To answer Crystal City -

Try the Cedar Deli, south end of town, in the Century buildings. The staff are mostly Salvadoran, and are soccer fans.

Desson Howe: Thanks.

Vienna, Va.: Why has ESPN, ESPN2 or ABC declined to show the England games live in the USA?

Desson Howe: Beats me, it really does.

Georgetown: God bless the Post's World Cup coverage -- Goff, Liz Clarke, Gildea, and now even the film critic!

The Spaniards: no one seems to be taking them seriously. They scare me. Am I wrong, or should I jump on the anti-bandwagon?

The Germans: I gather they have the reputation of being big and slow. Is this accurate? I saw the Paraguay game and wasn't impressed, but hey.

The English: good luck unless you meet the USA!

Desson Howe: Thanks for the luck. I hope we don't meet the USA. The Spanish are the stealth candidates. They could be in the final very very easily. The Germans are always better than people give them credit for. Never rule them out. Their WC final wins (4 isn't it?) speak for themselves.

The Azzuri, Ahn and Perugia: Desson,

It's a shame that the Italians, in many ways, are taking this with such poor grace. I'm sorry they felt like they got hosed by the ref, but honestly, had they played to the level they are capable of, the ref wouldn't have mattered.

Shame on Italia for this display. I'm not wearing my Baggio jersey for a while...

Desson Howe: You have a point. They were foolish to try and hold on to one goal against the hungriest fittest team in the tournament with crazy home crowds!

Fairfax: Desson - it is being reported that the Italian club Perugia is not going to let Ahn Jung-hwan back after he scored the game winner yesteday. Is this just poor sportsmanship or is it a reflection of the pure devotion that the Italians have for the game?

Desson Howe: Both!

Arlington, Va.: In light of the Italy-South Korea fiasco, I'd have to predict that the Brazil-England game is going to hinge on the officiating. If the officials call it too tight, Brazil wins 2-0. If he lets them play, England 1-0 on a header off of a corner.

Desson Howe: Let 'em play, then!

Henry (German Supporter): Desson, are we nervous? A little bit........
Are we going to CHOKE? Who are you kidding...
Hello to Paul and Chris at Lucky Bar....

Desson Howe: I'll pass your best to Paul and Chris. Yes, I'm not ashamed to admit I'm VERY NERVOUS. But we won't choke. We have no choice but to play our hearts out.

Arlington, Va.: I think one of the reasons the glamor teams have done so poorly this year is the heavy schedule played by the European clubs, home to most of the world's top players. I also doubt how many of these players feel loyalty to their national teams when they live and play for a living in a foreign country. Maybe if FIFA doesn't want a repeat of the parade of upsets in 2006, maybe they could encourage UEFA to suspend all the non-league competitions for the 2005-6 season.

Desson Howe: Good points.

Frederick, Md. Hello,
What do you feel is the overall international impression of the American World Cup team? Are they legit?

Desson Howe: Of course they are. Look what they've done.

RFK: Yes, they are showing THE game live at RFK on the Jumbro Trom. Gates open at 6:30am and it's free to get in!

Desson Howe: Yeah baby!

Somewhere, USA: I'm very excited about the US/Germany game, but still not ready to come out and claim victory before it's played. I think it's going to be a helluva game. I'll be putting my job in jeopardy by staying up all night to catch England/Brazil and then the US game. Are you concerned about the injuries on the English side? I'm rooting for England.

Desson Howe: Good on you for being such a supporter. This country needs more of you! I'm worried about Michael Owen. He had a groin injury. He's our best weapon up front. We need him!

Arlington, Va.: Brainbench.com has a World Cup History test. They are a local online testing service. Have you taken this test? It's in their Fun tests section, and was quite interesting.

Desson Howe: Haven't taken it. Sounds interesting though!

Washington, D.C.: I've been going to many of the games at a restaurant in DC, envious of those in places like Columbus who were viewing the games in their home MLS stadium. The Post reported that the game will be shown at RFK on Friday. Is this for sure? What effort is planned to promote this fact?

Desson Howe: Yes, see previous.

USA Advancement: Desson, you have to admit that the US advanced due to luck. Fortunately, it was able to prove itself against Mexico. We should thank Korea for beating Portugal. Our 3-1 loss to Poland was disgraceful to say the least.

Desson Howe: The loss to Poland was terrible form. yes. But the WC is like that. You can lose one and advance sometimes. All teams need luck no matter how good they are.

Portland, Maine: Why is the MLS the only league in the World still playing during the World Cup?

Desson Howe: I think so.

Henry (German Fan to NYC) : Desson, please refer the guy from NYC to the BBC Website to see how much trash the English Media writes ...

Desson Howe: OKay.

Baltimore: I played the game years ago and I don't see how the players can rebound physically in such a short time span. It's a grueling game and your legs don't feel the same for weeks. It's got to diminish the level of play by the end, don't you think?

Desson Howe: Sure. But you probably weren't as conditioned as pro soccer players are. They have masseurs rubbing them down straight after games, diet restrictions, training regimens, you name it. But even with that, yes, your muscles can only do so much.

D.C.: Desson, thank you for coming out against ignorant US sportswriters who can't spout the stats, so refuse to acknowledge the game's merits. What stunned me, however, was the non-sportswriters who are getting into soccer-bashing, including the Post's own Marc Fisher! If you don't enjoy the game, fine, but we don't want to know.

Thanks for letting me vent.

Desson Howe: Sure.

Jackson, Miss. : It is interesting that the top German is a naturalized Polish player (Miroslaw Klose) - good news for looser immigration!

Desson Howe: Interesting!

Wichita, Kan.: What is up with the Brazil schedule which guaranteed them a second round -- China, Turkey and Costa Rica.

Then the weakest division -- Russia, Japan, Belgium --

Seems that they were doing their best to assure that the big TV viewing would include them while making sure that Nigeria, Sweden, England and Argentina would fight it out -- how do they create these groups?

Desson Howe: By lot. And by region. Yeah they lucked out all right.

Washington, D.C.: Where did the Three Lions song come from and why? After taking in the last England game at the Lucky Bar (good to see you there!), I became interested in this anthem. Pretty catchy! I've got England's back, if and when the U.S. goes out!

Desson Howe: It's by the Lightning Seeds. Great anthem isn't it! A Brit band.

Vienna, Va.: Is it true that no European team has won the World cup outside of Europe?

Desson Howe: Correct as far as I'm aware. The team whose continent it's played on has traditionally been the winner. Which makes this really interesting for Korea. Although the final's in Japan, isn't it?

Washington, D.C.: Desson - Tell me I can watch the England-Brazil match live, the U.S.-Germany match live, and still put in a full work day on Friday. Tell me I can, and I will do it. Thanks.

Desson Howe: You can do the football but only some part of you will show up at work. Hasn't stopped me.

Frankfort, Ky.: Agreed, "Mine eyes have seen the glory!" is a phenomenally dumb thing to say about a soccer game. But the Tommy Smyth-JP Dellacamera team on ESPN are a lot of fun.

They should cover the big games instead of ESPN's poorly-chosen first team. If they were, there wouldn't be such a big deal about the quality gap between ESPN and Univision.

We don't get Univision here, so if it's not JP&Tommy I just turn the sound off.

Desson Howe: Thanks for your comment. I'm not nearly as supportive of those two as you. I've had to endure them for years, watching European champion's league games.

Cap Hill, D.C.: The game tomorrow morning is shown at RFK. Doors open 6:30, some concession stands are supposed to be open.

Desson Howe: Thanks again.

Henry: Desson, Germany was in the final six times (same as Brazil) and won three. Stick wih film reviews......

Desson Howe: Uh, thanks for the comment. I will.

Arlington, Va.: Thanks for doing this chat!

My question is why do so many columnists feel the need to write about how soccer will never catch on here, during the World Cup?

E.g., immediately after the U.S. beat Mexico, the lead story on CNN/SI was Phil Taylor claiming that he knows soccer (which he does not) and then going on an unsolicited rant as to why soccer will always be small time in the U.S. The timing was terrible.

You don't show up at someone's wedding reception and talk about divorce. Couldn't these writers conceal their ignorance until a later date?

Desson Howe: You echo my sentiments.

California: Soccer might be a fun game to play, or even watch in person, but on TV it is simply dreadful. 90 minutes of watching people chase a ball up and down, back and forth a huge field only to score one point the entire game. Just awful.

Desson Howe: Speak for yourself, my friend.

Footballitis Sufferer: What do you think are the best places for soccer coverage on the Web? I really enjoy the Guardian's coverage, smirking though it often is.

Desson Howe: Smirky is good. It's the English way. I don't like the way they can get negative about their own players. And I don't like anti-German jingoism either.

Washington, D.C.: I'm afraid I don't agree with Frankfort, KY... Dellacamera should be banned. Smyth's not quite as bad, though he sounds like a leprechaun.

Give us some British, Italian, or Latin American announcers! People who feel the game!

Desson Howe: Thanks. I agree.

Gaithersburg, Md.: Is there anywhere else to watch the England/Brazil game other than Summer's? There is no getting a seat there.

Desson Howe: Afraid not. I would love to hear of someplace else. The moronic ABC liquor board in D.C., and may they rot in bad tequila, has forbidden DC bars to be open at that time.

Iowa : Are the Turks a European or Asian team?

Desson Howe: Well, they're part of NATO.

Arlington, VA: Desson, had no idea you were a football fan but I usually enjoy your film reviews!

Any prediction for England v. Brazil?

Cheers!

Desson Howe: I'm afraid I don't want to jinx anything. But thanks for your compliment.

Fredericksburg, Va.: What changes in the lineup should Arena make to counter the German strengths? Who's in/out in your book? I'd love to see more of Josh Wolf and less of Clint Mathis, your thoughts?

Desson Howe: Physical strength and fitness is going to be key. It's a matter of which ones can take the pounding. Germans are strong.

Washington, D.C.: How about Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas?

Stopped TWO penalty kicks from Ireland. TWO!

The question is - how will he do against the Koreans, with their home team advantage?

Desson Howe: Those Irish penalty kickers were useless. And I was rooting for ireland. Yes, he IS a good keeper anyway. Spain are a great team. I think they'll win. But so far, every thing has been topsy turvy.

ArtMovieLover, Va.: Hey, if the soccer fans can interject their questions into your biweekly movies chat, surely I can rain on their parade by asking about your initial reaction to "Minority Report."

Is it brilliant?

Now back to our regularly scheduled soccer talk...

Desson Howe: It was pretty good. But 2 days after seeing it, it's completely left my thoughts. Chinese food movie.

Wash, DC: Tommy Symth is the WORST! I don't hate Michael Wilbon probably knows more about the game than he does.

Desson Howe: Michael has come around for soccer in a big way. He's one of the sports writers at the Post who are supportive actually. Steve Goff and William Gildea too. Those three are all on our side.

Old Town: Hey California,

Do you prefer to watch baseball? That's non-stop action, isn't it - sort of like watching paint dry. Or American football. One play, stop. One play, stop. ZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Desson Howe: Okay. I'll allow one dig. But puh leez, let's leave baseball out of this. We see enough of it taking up space on television to get into it here.

Washington, D.C.: In answer to Arlington, Va. -- it is NOT football/futbol everywhere in the world. In Italy, is is calcio. Are there other local variations anywhere else (other than U.S. with pointy football....)

Desson Howe: Thanks. Anyone?

DC: Do you agree that the quality and excitement of play has been superb this WC? WC matches are always high-charged, but the goals this year have been great, and there have been very few plodding games that I think most Americans base their opinions on. Thoughts?

Desson Howe: It's been the most exciting tourney I remember, for the upsets alone.

Sterling, Va.: Answer to Detroits issue of why soccer has not "taken off". Reason: part of it is media but this is America, and if $$$ cannot be generated via advertising every 2 minutes like football, baseball, and basketball, the sport will suffer in popularity and exposure. While the actual TIME played in these other sports is anemic, they continue to dominate our short-sighted population. Until this changes and we wake-up and financially accept soccer as a beautiful game, i.e., PAY more, the sport will struggle to overcome the others.

Desson Howe: Thanks.

Crystal City: What do you think the keys are for England to defeat Brazil?

How about USA-Germany?

Thanks

Desson Howe: England needs to score more goals. :) the Americans need to all-out attack so the Germans are defending all the time. They can't sit back and absorb the blows. I don't think they'll be able to withstand people like Michael Ballack.

Herndon,Va: Soccer is awesome to watch on television (live is the best, but we do with what we can). Nothing beats watching the intricate footwork of a forward working his way through the defense. Sometimes you have to take the ball backwards in order to set up a good shot on goal.

Americans don't get it because they didn't grow up playing it at company picnics and during summer camp (like baseball and football).

Desson Howe: Thanks.

Basic question: OK, I apologize in advance for how dumb this question probably is, but I really don't know - how come the team is "England" and not UK? Does Scotland have a WC team? Why does England get their own team?

Again, really sorry for my complete and utter lack of knowledge about UK structure, but I don't get it. Thanks!

Desson Howe: I knew once but forgot. It's political. To do with the football assocs of all those countries voting for independence.

Louisville, Ky.: What's your list of top soccer movies to watch?

Desson Howe: The truth is, there haven't been many at all. The Robert Duvall one called the Road to Glory has the best soccer action in it. It'll be coming sometime later this year. Set in Scotland.

D.C.: What are your favorite sports, or sport-themed, movies?

Desson Howe: American football ones are the best because AMerican scriptwriters know the territory. Tin Cup is a great golf movie, I think.

Arlington, VA: Im Deutschland, es Fussball oder FuBall (sorry, no schloss on my keyboard.)

Hey Desson - there are other places open at 2:30 in the morning, including the Diner (Adams Morgan), the Engles Diner (Mt. Pleasant) and some in MD. There's a list on this site, which is much longer than the list that ran in the Post.

Desson Howe: Thanks. I thought all DC joints had to be closed. But I'll check them out. Danke Schoen.

NYC: Italy got into the second round on "luck" as well. I'm sure Vieri was having a run of bad luck in his last game. He had so many shots on goal that did not produce, he looked to be acquiring a migraine. South Korea was exhausted as well. I think the Koreans will continue to be exhausted and won't make the final four.

Desson Howe: We'll see.

Gaithersburg, Md.: Hey Herndon: don't use the term "Americans", as if we all have the same attitudes toward soccer. Many Americans grew up with soccer camps and have played and love the sport their whole lives. Qualify that noun!

Desson Howe: Right on! Not everyone hates the game here. In fact millions love it.

20001: It's soccer in Australia too -- and there they have THREE different kinds of football (rugby)

Desson Howe: Good point, Bluey.

Gaithersburg, Md.: To Portland, Maine: Don't forget that MLS has to fit it season in during the Football off-season and the slow start to the baseball season and the end of the basketball season ... they have too much competition for media coverage. They don't really have a choice but to play during the World Cup madness.

Desson Howe: Thanks.

Arlington, Va.: There have been experiments using two referees on the field plus two assistants on the sidelines in several places around the world, including the US. But those experiments generally failed due to a number of factors. FIFA concluded that the current system still seems to be the best we can do for now.

Desson Howe: Good, thanks.

Golazo: You're a journalist, maybe you can help. Why do American columnists, sports and non, feel so threatened by soccer that they need to savage it at every opportunity. Granted, the US's run this year has excited some unlikely folks and gotten more positive press, but you still have small-minded bashings such as Marc Fisher's. (On the other hand, I enjoyed the Magazine Reader's hilarious column yesterday, even if it did run over some of the old "soccer is dull" ruts.)

Desson Howe: We've covered this. But thanks for the comments.

Vienna, Va.: What do you think about the S. Korean team? I think it's great to see an Asian team doing so well and holding their presence.

Desson Howe: Yes, they're a great addition to the mix!

Gaithersburg, Md.: Regarding a question about Michael Wilbon. I met him a few years ago at RFK before a playoff game. He is a true gentleman and wants the sport to succeed.

The Post has done a great job in their coverage of the World Cup.

Cheers!

Desson Howe: Yes, aye to Michael Wilbon. A great guy. And the Post is really trying. Best coverage since I've been at the paper.

Arlington, Va.: How much extra do the players and coaches receive when they win?

Desson Howe: Alot. The Turkish govt has told their team they'll literally get blank cheques. And bridges named after them. I believe the Iraq players got spanked when they lost, but that may have been urban legend.

Gaithersburg, Md.: GO TURKEY GO!!!!! What a great win over Japan! So do you think Turkey will beat Senegal? It seems like the WC is full of surprises this year.

Desson Howe: That's a tough one. I think Senegal might have the edge. But it depends on the bounce of the ball and the referee's call.

Arlington, Va.: Films: What about "The Cup" from Bhutan, and "Fever Pitch" from England? There is even a Hungarian time travel fantasy called "6-3", about a contemporary Hungarian who gets transported back to the famous England-Hungary match in 1953, but that film has not received much U.S. distribution. (I saw it at a screening at the Hungarian Embassy a couple of years ago.)

Desson Howe: All good recommendations. Loved The Cup but it didn't show much soccer.

Gaithersburg, Md.: Do some teams give citizenship to players just for the sake of World Cup competition (Poland's Nigerian striker)?

Desson Howe: He also had married a Polish woman. He was playing for a Polish club. So, it was sort of that way but not completely.

Washington DC: The Ken Loach film My Name is Joe, while not exactly a soccer movie, is a great flick that features members of a "real" soccer league of unemployed workers.

Desson Howe: yes, good one. I liked that film./

Italy, schmitaly: OK, Italy did get screwed, but are in part at fault because they have stuck to a score one and bunker strategy that is no longer appropriate to their talent or that which they face. I think if they can get past their indignation, this might serve as a wake-up call -- there is really no reason for a team to play the same style from the beginning of time until the Rapture.

Desson Howe: Thanks.

Arlington, Va.: For those inquiring minds, the ref for Eng-Bra will be Ramos Rizo from Mexico and the US-Germany will be Hugh Dallas from Scotland.

Desson Howe: Interesting.

Arlington, Va.: Given the blatant corruption within FIFA, I wouldn't be surprised at all to learn that referees have been given instructions on what teams to judge more harshly.

Desson Howe: I know what you mean.

Frederick, Md.: Desson, you are probably getting this question a lot: Does the U.S. have a realistic chance of beating Germany? How do you compare Germany to Portugal, which was supposedly a soccer power? Thanks.

Desson Howe: Portugal are better than they played. And Germany, as I said, are very good. Don't make the mistake of misjudging them.

Payments for players.: The US-Germany game is worth about 100,000 to each U.S. player. They are getting about 160,000 so far (plus 2500 for each game) and they'll go to about 265,000 if they beat Germany...

Desson Howe: That's what David Beckham gets in his sleep.

VA: I was talking with a "soccer mom". She was surprised there is no NCAA-like in Europe. Most foreign soccer clubs have their own minor league development. And we expect all kids to go on to college. Sigh.

Desson Howe: I've never understood what college education has to do with professional sports.

Gaithersburg, Md.: Do you thing Arena will keep Mastreoni (sp?) in the line-up. He is big and strong in the center and we need his imposing presence there to fend off the German air game.

Desson Howe: I was extremely impressed with him against Mexico.

Arlington, Va.: What about the Rodney Dangerfield movie?

Desson Howe: Ha bloody ha. Terrible movie.

Alexandria, Va.: I don't know if you've answered this before, but does your wife share your heritage -- and/or your passion for the game? How about the kids? Is watching soccer a family event in your house, or is it Dad sneaking off to the upstairs telly?

Desson Howe: Dad sneaks off to the downstairs telly. Middle son Adrian likes soccer. Older son likes parties, cars and women. Younger son likes Nintendo. My lovely wife is very good to me. She knows she lives with an addict. She's a stoic, supportive soccer widow.

Re: Places Open at 2:30: Those places are restaurants that are already open 24 hours, and, as such, aren't regulated by the ABCB or whatever the stupid agency is.

Desson Howe: GREAT NEWS if true. But I need to make sure there's a lot of English supporters where I go.

Reston, Va.: Enough about soccer, bring on the NFL.

Desson Howe: Not here, my friend. (Although unlike many anti soccer folks in the USA I have gained an appreciation of football, AMerican that is, and basketball--why is it so culturally difficult the other way around?)

Fairfax, Va.: Anyone know where to watch the US-Germany game in Fairfax?

Desson Howe: Quick, anyone? Time is running out.

Gaithersburg, Md.: What do you think about Demarcus Beasley's chances of playing on Friday? I am impressed with his speed and skill, but he seems to be knocked off of his feet quite easily.

Desson Howe: Clubs in England and Europe are already clamoring for hm. Good player.

Washington, D.C.: Desson, you know, while I think its wrong the way some writers/commentators denigrate soccer in this country, it's just as wrong for folks (like some in this very chat) to denigrate the U.S. because soccer isn't big here. I like it, but I only pay attention during the world cup and European championships, and I get into it then because of the pageantry, intensity etc... But, you know I've got pro football and basketball, college football and basketball, and baseball that I grew up with. So cut me some slack.

Also, why is it Eng ER land?

Desson Howe: Hey, I like the fact that you follow it at all. And many of us are reacting to some really virulent anti soccer stuff. Thanks for your open mind. Eng-e-land just works for the sound of it, I guess.

Washington, DC: On the issue of soccer's popularity in the US...

Putting aside the leagues of the 70s, we've only had a credible national league for less than a decade (women's league, less than half that).

Also, while there's been an explosion of youth soccer, it's an organized, American-style thing - not quite the same as in countries where every kid out in the street is kicking around a ball. We've got that sort of thing, with basketball in cities, hockey in the Midwest/North, etc., football in the South... just not soccer.

Desson Howe: Hopefully change is on the way.

Arlington, Va.: Im Deutschland, es Fussball oder FuBall (sorry, no schloss on my keyboard.)

Hey Desson - there are other places open at 2:30 in the morning, including the Diner (Adams Morgan), the Engles Diner (Mt. Pleasant) and some in Md. There's a list on this site, which is much longer than the list that ran in the Post.

Desson Howe: Double thanks.

Arlington, Va.: I was kidding about the Rodney Dangerfield movie. As for other media, I highly recommend Roddy Doyle's "The Van" which as a great chapter set in an Irish pub during Ireland's knockout win over Rumania in the 1990 cup. Great stuff.

Desson Howe: yes, great film.

Washington, DC: Desson,
I'm with you on the Telemundo/Univision v. ESPN issue - and I don't speak Spanish.

Hate to say this, as an American, but I'd much rather listen to non-American announcers call soccer games, regardless of language.

Desson Howe: Si senor. I agree.

WDC: Desson,

As far as the legacy of this WC, might it be seen as the Cup when global football power decisively moved from the Old World to the New? By New I mean US, Korea, Senegal, Turkey, etc...or do you think it's just a freak occurence brought on by the less than typical host countries and generally poor performances from the favorites?

Desson Howe: Good coaches. All of these teams have coaches from the old world of soccer.

My Wish: I would LOVE to see Senegal vs Korea in the final, with Germany and England playing for third place.

It's about time that an Asian or African country wins the World Cup. This year could/should be the year.

Desson Howe: OK. I don't share that, but if England or the US are out, then I'm all for it.

Washington, D.C.: Italy was robbed ... just a bit. But, more importantly, soccer is also about being flexible enough and mentally strong enough to win with both bad luck and good luck. Despite the bad call by the referee, Italy still could have and should have won the game. Korea, though, is the deserved winner.

Desson Howe: I think this is the perfect answer to that whole question.

Seattle (the Newcastle of the USA): Desson:

Are you concerned about the performance of ManU players in the Cup? Barthez was awful for France; Keane got his red backside kicked off the Irish squad.. Beckham's playing well for England, though....

Up and down for our NUFC heroes -- Kieron Dyer hasn't played much for England with injury; Shay Given did a good job in goal for Ireland...

And -- let's keep a close eye on Rivaldo -- soon to be appearing at St. James' Park!

Desson Howe: Oooh, you're scaring me. Seriously. I was grateful to Sebastian Veron for playing the way he does for MAnU. Helped Argentina lose to England.

Tommy Smyth fan: Just curious ... per today's article by Frank Ahrens and Paul Farhi...are you watching matches on ESPN/ESPN2 or Univision? I wonder why the article made no mention of Tommy Smyth. Tommy's the ONLY English-speaking commentator worth listening to ... in my humble opinion. Love his enthusiasm, love his keen eye for the game, and love the great accent. You have to wonder if any of his colleagues at ESPN actually know the game.

Desson Howe: Well, he's the best of a terrible bunch. But that's not saying very much in my humble.

sw, dc: Thank you to RFK for finally getting a clue about World Cup. It's great that they are allowing the community to come out and watch the game there. Now I don't have to fight my way into Lucky Bar or Cap Lounge to watch the game, or generally, stand on the sidewalk and listen.

Is RFK allowing food to be brought in or do we have to buy it there?

More importantly, are they selling beer?

Desson Howe: Beer, I don't know. Hope so.

JPC, Fairfax: FYI - This link from the Post details places in the area showing games.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/entertainment/new_features/barsclubs/worldcup2002.htm

Desson Howe: Very good. Thanks a lot.

Adams Morgan: England has no chance against Brazil.

Is it possible to call the Senegal-Turkey game? I imagine that Senegal will carry the play, but Turkey has looked terrific defensively.

Finally, do you have any good ideas for a nickname for the Americans? I like "The Soccer Team." If not that, then perhaps "The Great Satan."

Desson Howe: I always liked Sam's Army. But that's the fans.

Desson Howe: Sorry to blow the whistle, but I'm 20 minutes into overtime. And I have to do some deadline stuff. It's been great. Loved talking with all of you. Best of luck to everyone's team! Enjoy the rest of the WC. Keep loving football. Cheers.

washingtonpost.com:

That wraps up today's show. Thanks to everyone who joined the discussion.

Stay tuned to Live Online:

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