This week has been an exciting one for me, as I've been watching the qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup (as of writing this on October 13, the current international window is wrapping up, with the next set of matches starting on November 12). Watching these games made me reflect on why I love FIFA so much–even with its complicated and sometimes corrupt political side.
Yes, I admit that soccer isn't as popular here in the United States compared to our version of football (unless we're talking about women's soccer – in which case, we usually dominate!). Club soccer is fine, though it happens so often that it can be hard to keep up. I didn't even pay much attention when the Club World Cup took place here last summer.
What makes FIFA and international soccer special to me is that it truly is the world's game. Every region has leagues and clubs where players from different nations can come together and create something remarkable. But for me, the real magic lies with the national teams – representing their countries and uniting fans around the globe in a way that club soccer just can't match.
My own history with FIFA goes back to 2010, when a friend of mine traveled to South Africa for that year's World Cup. I followed the tournament casually back then, and again in 2014 when Brazil hosted it. But it wasn't until the 2018 edition in Russia that I really started paying attention as an adult. By 2022, I was fully hooked – watching every match I could and finding myself inspired by the spirit of competition.
Around that time, I also began following more regional tournaments like the UEFA European Championship. The first one I watched was the 2020/21 edition, which took place across multiple European countries. Even my family got into it – I learned then that my dad's favorite national team is Croatia, and he's always thrilled when they do well.
I've always loved major global events like the Olympics or the World Cup – not just for the sports, but for the cultural aspect. Despite the controversies surrounding the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, no one can deny it delivered incredible drama, surprises, and unforgettable moments.
When something interests me, I love diving into the history behind it. For example, did you know that Japan, Siam (modern-day Thailand), and Egypt were invited to the very first World Cup in 1930 but couldn't make it – Japan and Siam because of cost concerns, and Egypt because their ship missed its departure date? I also enjoy learning about regional competitions like North America's Gold Cup, South America's Copa America, and Europe's Euros – each with its own deep traditions and rivalries.
I even try to get my family in on the fun by organizing prediction contests during the tournaments. We compete to see who can guess the most match winners, betting points along the way and raising the stakes all the way to the final. What started as a friendly family activity has now grown to include friends and relatives too.
As for the future, I'm hoping to attend one of the 2026 World Cup matches here in North America – possibly in Canada, Mexico, or the U.S. thanks to some family connections, that dream might actually become a reality.
Overall, I have immense respect for the power of soccer. It's a sport that can bring people together, bridge cultures, and even pause conflicts – if only for a little while. It's about joy, hope, passion, and unity.
That's all I've got for this week. Apologies for my long-winded ramble – I'm just extremely passionate about this sport. See you next time!
