For once, we're not talking about FIFA politics, oil money, or Sepp Blatter's disgraceful re-election "campaigning". We really are talking about people's lives at this point.
On Friday, the US Soccer Federation said they were monitoring the ongoing episode in Cairo, host to the February 9 friendly between the Yanks and the Pharaohs, and what is now seven straight days of protests that have turned into bloodshed. About an hour ago, the US State Department announced that they were beginning to evacuate Americans from the region.
Rosters for the match are expected to be announced next week, with players arriving in Cairo on the 6th. The Stars and Stripes would most likely field their full senior squad, sans Landon Donovan.
While it may be a reminder of the situation in 2009 in Honduras before the World Cup Qualifier, it may be a bigger deal this time. It doesn't seem terribly safe to send our boys to such an unstable city at this time. While the soccer federations are exploring other options (postponment, another venue, etc.), it may come down simply canceling the match altogether if an agreement can't be reached. And while I'm the last person who wants to see that happen, the priorities are obvious. Stay tuned.
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