International Sports Divides the World

...

their political differences. People believed that at this moment, some tensions between the two countries would ease. Unfortunately, that belief was not made. After USA had lost to Iran 1-2, more problems arose between the two countries. Videos have documented that Iran supporters taunted American fans by shouting harmful comments on the news, made posters that expressed their hatred feelings towards them, and that the USA have had nothing to play for. Despite what the people around the world thought before, during or after the game, the two nations continued to be rival countries, not just on the field, but also in war, politics, and power.

Soccer, an international sport, has created many problems around the world, creating tensions and conflicts among countries. It is evident that soccer does not unify the world, rather it divides the world. The power to win and claim glory is a major factor that has caused these problems. Fans have proved to be loyal to their country’s team, however, vandalism and attacks does not fall under the category of “fan” or “loyal.” In addition, soccer players, coaches, referees, and their families are also at risk during the World Cup. Therefore, I believe soccer, or any other international sport divides the world, creating unhealthy relationships between people and countries.

Bibliography

• Almond, Elliot. “World Cup: Belgium, where soccer unites a divided Country.” MercuryNews.com. 29 June, 2014. Online

• Bauder, David. “The World Cup Final Was The Most Watched Soccer Game in U.S. History.” Huffington Post. 14 July 2014. Online

• Colitt, Raymond. “World Cup Divides Brazil in Benefits, Squandered Money.” Bloomberg News. 12 June 2014. Online

• Drezner, Daniel. “The Soccer War.” The Washington Post. 4 June 2006. Article

• N.P. “Toronto documentary filmmaker injured during World Cup clashes.” Thestar.com. 13 September 2014. Online

• N.P. “Violence erupts in Buenos Aires after Argentina’s World Cup.” LA Times. 13 July 2014. Newspaper article.

• Panja, Tariq and Edgerton, Anna. “World Cup Racism Undercuts Brazil ‘We are Equal’ Campaign.” Bloomberg News. 30 May, 2014. Online