For those of you who don't know much about soccer on the international stage, Team USA has a bitter rival. The nation below our border holds the title for America's most disliked opponent.
Both teams compete in the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF). The teams have seen each other on the soccer pitch in friendlies as well, playing 63 times since their first meeting in 1934. Mexico has an advantage in the win column with a record of 33-18-14, but America has an edge in the past 10 years with a record of 7-4-4 against "El Tri."
The rivalry holds severe hostility on both sides, with numerous matches ending with neither sides lining up for the customary post-game handshake.
The Mexican side is particularly nasty. In several instances, the Mexican fans chanted, "Osama" during the game, as a taunt aimed at the World Trade Center tragedy. The Mexican fans also have booed the playing of the "Star Spangled Banner."
More disgusting antics from the Mexican side have included the throwing of gallon-sized bags of urine at American players.
In 2009, Mexican assistant coach Francisco Ramirez attacked former American midfielder Frankie Hejduk, slapping him in the tunnel at the Columbus Crew stadium in Columbus, Ohio.
As Americans, our competitive nature loves a good rivalry. While LSU fans have been known to act similarly by tossing urine at an opposing team or players, and Bama fans occasionally poison our trees, the Mexican fans have mocked America on a personal level and should be viewed as a vicious rival that we should enjoy rooting against.
Regardless of if you are a fan of the world's most popular game, the World Cup has gripped America. We can all get behind our nation and enjoy the uncommon unity of an entire nation standing together and rooting for our boys in Brazil.
A fierce rivalry dating back to 1932 always helps stoke the fire in competition, and America is hoping to go further than their biggest rivals if they can survive the group stage.
Now that Mexico has advanced to the knockout stage, all the USA has to do is either tie or beat Germany to advance. While unlikely, the two rivals could meet again if both teams make historic runs, setting up one of the most anticipated match-ups in this storied rivalries history.
While soccer may not be considered the most "American" sport, it's always fun getting behind your nation and supporting the red, white and blue. Heading downtown to watch the game at Halftime with the American Outlaws while jamming to "Danger Zone" by Kenny Loggins embodies the American spirit.
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