Four years ago at the last World Cup, our favorite team Spain won it all. It was a thrilling month as we nervously watched game after game and kept seeing our team advance. This World Cup I spent the first 3 weeks in Africa in a house with no electricity hence no TV. Each morning I got a report from one of the Africans, who lived in place with electricity and a computer, who dutifully checked the scores for me. For Spain it was a horrible world cup....they were the first team eliminated and were humiliated by the Netherlands 5-1 and also lost to Chile. Goodbye Spain!
My friend Tsuma Jira did agree to escort me to the local bar in Taru, Kenya to watch Nigeria play Argentina, my 2nd favorite team. When we talked to Rinda (the Kenya Keys director) about going to watch the game, I felt like a teenager talking to Mom before going on my first date! Tsuma promised to walk me home and to get me out of there if there were problems. I was under strict orders NOT to cheer for Argentina against the African team! I almost forgot once when Messi scored but was quickly reminded of my promise! When I remembered that Argentina was going to advance to the next round even if they tied Nigeria, I decided I could cheer for them. The man by me asked which team I supported and I could honestly say, "I want Nigeria to score but I do love Leo Messi".
Since I didn't have the nerve to stand up and take a photo, you will have to just picture this, one lone white person, an elderly woman - ME in a sleazy bar with all these African men and my 22 year old 'date'. The only other woman was the waitress in her tight jeans and shirt! I think Tsuma was very brave to be my escort. I'll never forget that night. I had fun! He is a wonderful young man who is about to start his 3rd year at the university! In some ways I think of him as my 4th son!
Today Argentina beat the Netherlands in the Semi-finals in a very close and emotional game that ended in a shoot-out. John and Monica said that Buenos Aires was just one big party with people cheering and chanting on every corner plus fireworks and horns honking non-stop. Here is a picture they sent from the TV.
Look at that crowd! And here are my own favorite Argentina fans out in the street celebrating!
This celebration is just for making it to the finals. Can you imagine what it will be like on Sunday when and if they win the whole thing? I'm hoping that happens so Johnny and Monica can experience the celebration. It will be something to share with their kids someday!
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