The U.S.A.’s match against Iran in the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) World Cup drew an assorted crowd in the University of Wyoming Union. The impromptu gathering saw a collection of nationalities represented, united in rooting for the States.
The FIFA World Cup began on Nov. 20 in Qatar with a match between the Qatari National team and Ecuador. Within a week of games, the 2022 world cup has already established itself as a heartwarming, surprising, and at times controversial event playing out on the global stage.
While each student tuned in to cheer for the U.S.,each had a different answer for who they’d like to see walk away with the trophy.
Architectural Engineering student Chris suspects Argentina would win the World Cup, but harbors hopes for Mexico.
“That’s where I come from, where my parents come from—my origin, but they’ve had a tough time so far.”
Another watcher, Ayoub, expressed support for his home country.
“My favorite game is tomorrow. It’s Morocco, where I’m from. They’ve been playing great so far.”
Despite this, Ayoub also sees Argentina as the favorite. In a near consensus, most agreed that Argentina was likely to take the trophy, but when pressed for their favorites, each named a different country.
Most of these countries were chosen as favorites because they hold significant meaning due to factors such as foreign exchange programs, culture, or homeland allegiance.
From Mexico to Denmark, Morocco to the Netherlands, the Union has become a melting pot of various nationalities and backgrounds. As the U.S.A. won a single point victory over Iran, onlookers celebrated together in a show of unity.
Amid domestic conflicts following the death of Masha Amini and the refusal to sing their national anthem in their debut game against England, the Iranian team has been a polarizing topic for soccer fans and Iranian nationals, as one man watching described.
“I am from Iran, so theoretically I should be for Iran but this team is not the people’s team, it’s the regime’s team.” The man, who asked not to be identified, continued.
“Most of the Iranians do not support the team this year. In the last few months there has been a lot of conflict inside Iran, intense protests going on and that is the reason.”
With this win, The USA team advances to play the Netherlands in December.
