We Still Have Korea (and Columbus . . .)

For the first time since 1976 (barring boycot), the U.S. men's team will not be playing soccer in the Olympics. A crushing 4-0 defeat by Mexico last night (in Mexico) sealed the deal. Mexico and Costa Rica, as semi-final winners of the qualifying tournament, will represent CONCACAF in Athens. This should be a reminder that, in spite of our recent good form against the Mexicans, we are not the undisputed big dog of soccer in the region. Having said that, had we tanked in our last group match and faced Costa Rica instead, I think we'd be heading for Greece. Hopefully the women will make it through and end up with a gold!

And not to downplay the importance the Olympics in soccer, but we now join the likes of Brazil (failed to qualify) and England (no Olympic team) as spectators at this tournament. Pretty good company.