America, why so negative?

By Eric Beard, writing from Boston

It was a rough day, America. And we all have the right to be unhappy with the United States’ loss against Ghana. But let’s break down our disappointment. Disappointment is a good thing. It means that we wanted more. The key word there is want. Not need.

So how exactly did they let us all down? A poor performance? Fair enough. Failing to snatch a spot in the quarterfinals? Of course. Letting down millions of Americans who were watching their nation’s side for the first time? Well yes, that too. The World Cup isn’t about capturing supporters that are not loyal, it is about playing football in a manner that impresses the entire world. But going back to our disappointment, were these hopes really anything more than avaricious desires?