Torontonians celebrating Spain’s win. Picture stolen from Blogto.com.
Sigh. My dad introduced me and my brother into World Cup soccer back in 1994. Back then it was part of the package of Dad’s eccentric un-canadianisms like espresso, noisy family, and anchovies. We were on summer break, so we were able to watch all the games. And we pretty much did, getting caught up in the passion and drama of world cup soccer. We were rooting for Italy (for our dad) and they played some amazing dramatic soccer; I remember Baggio always scoring these beautiful last minute goals and saving the game. We thought we might go to St. Clair if they won; and it was really sad to see them lose in a penalty shootout to Brazil.
The next World Cup was in France; and so was I. It was a complete coincidence; but I got to watch a lot of games in hostel bars. I left before France won. Again, I ended up in Europe four years later. 2006 was the first World Cup I spent fully in Toronto, and was surprised when the games started and I realized something was different – I was still here! I didn’t watch as many games due to work and friends who weren’t really into it.
Nonetheless, I was back on track this summer when I found myself (by coincidence) in Italy during the start of the games. I returned to Toronto a couple weeks ago and caught the rest without the interruptions of travel. Last night I finally found myself in a group of girls who were as into it as I was (the drama, the game, the hot men). In the excitement, we headed down to the spanish hood to watch the party.
I’ve been joking about how I’ll end up in Brazil for the 2014 games. Who knows? It would be a fitting culmination to my WC odysseys. It has always been a special time for me, and its been great to watch the popularity of the sport grow (especially because now I have more friends to watch it with).
Italy is still my team (although I haven’t been impressed with their play lately). But I’m dreaming of a Canadian team! I would love to see my country represent.
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