England and America have always enjoyed a special relationship. Of course, it started with a war when a bunch of upstart colonists decided they didn’t want to be ruled by a government on the other side of the ocean. It blossomed into another war which, even though the capital city was torched, the new Americans were still able to keep the Brits on the other side of the pond. Since then, though, the two countries have shared a very special bond. They have been trading partners, not only in goods but in music and art. They have even been allies in two world wars. In the latter half of the twentieth century they were two of the world’s super powers. They now turn to each other in a sort of brotherly way. They may disagree but they always come together. Of course it might come down over one sports gambling bet.
The Americans and the English start the 2010 World Cup with a highly publicized match against one another. England has a storied tradition of great soccer (excuse me, football). They have turned out many stars, have one of the most competitive leagues, and even have a World Cup championship. When compared to England the American soccer programs are much like their national history, young, but forceful. There are no World Cup and very few major stars. In fact, most professional leagues have met sad fates. However, the national team takes great pride in being the dark horse, and they revel in their rivalry with the English. So much so that the ambassadors for both countries have made a friendly gamble over the match.
The American ambassador in London has made a bet with his counterpart in Washington D.C. The wager is one meal. The gamble has come with some tongue in cheek jabs. “We will understand if you decline, given the outcome of the last encounter,” wrote a U.S. aide. An English official replied, “It is a testament, I assume, to the generosity of your great nation since the British Ambassador does not anticipate paying out.” We’ll all know who has to pay the gambling debt tonight.
