WORLD CUP

Bangladesh isn’t in the World Cup, but flags are waving and people have been asking me who I’m rooting for. Since my country has dominated much of the world with wars, McDonalds and Hollywood, I don’t feel any particular need to support their domination of a sport that’s not their own.

The favorite teams here are Argentina and Brazil, hands down. I’m eager to join the world in watching a few matches, partly because I love the game and partly to experience the Bangladeshi festivities. Everyone's pumped.

The few parks nearby have become dusty clouds in which football tournaments mimic the World Cup. With the time difference between here and South Africa, it works out well for people to play in the day and watch the Cup matches at night.

For some of the big games, we’re hoping to go to the big screen at the “Times Square” of Dhaka where masses will rally for a free viewing. It’ll be hot and crowded, but worth the experience for sure. I look forward to many hugs with many, many sweaty and energized strangers.

Tonight we’re hoping to join a British establishment for the US vs. England game just after midnight. It’ll be a rowdy night I’m sure! I’ll be cheering for the US, but I’ll also just be cheering because there’s some good football and football lovers!