Like it or not traditional futbol fans, the spirit of the World Cup has wrapped the United States up in a curious, proud bundle of patriotism and turned the passive (bandwagon) fans into frenzied maniacs who are watching, cheering and jeering; even if they aren’t sure exactly whats going on…and it showed in the ratings reports released this morning.
ESPN has announced that it’s broadcast of the USA-Portugal match that ended in a draw yesterday, averaged 18,220,000 viewers–the most ever to watch a soccer game in United States history. The previous high was 17,975,000 in 1999 when the U.S. beat China in the World Cup final by a score of 5-4.
Although the game averaged just over 18 million viewers, it peaked at almost 23 million during the last, most exciting few minutes. I doubt the United States will become the new hub of world class soccer anytime soon, however, don’t think that the game isn’t becoming more popular here at home. Even if it’s a slow process.