[the invisib1e hand]

it's the perfect sport for mealy-mouthed, leftist democracies in decline, and banana republics, too.

That's what they know.

Hence it's increasing popularity in the US.

[Joe 6-pack]

"it's the perfect sport for mealy-mouthed, leftist democracies in decline, and banana republics, too."

Having played soccer competitively from age 6 to 22, I will openly admit that while it's one of the most intense, demanding games to play, it's also one of the very dullest to watch.