The World Cup is right around the corner, and soccer fans everywhere have been counting down for the past four years. Whether you’re an avid follower of the international sport or just looking for something to get excited about in June, here are five ways to get ready for the upcoming international event.
1. Set your clocks and your DVR
The World Cup matches will be played all over Brazil in cities such as Rio, Porto Alegre, Sao Paulo and Manaus. Make sure to set alarm clocks for unusual game times in the correct time zones. If unable to catch a live game, set up the DVR. Be sure to stay away from any social media that may spoil the outcome of the game.
2. Find your perfect USA outfit
Team USA makes its 2014 World Cup debut against Ghana on Monday, June 16, at 6 p.m. ET. A proper outfit would consist of face paint, an oversized USA flag, a jersey and some red, white and blue Mardi Gras beads.
“I would wear my bandana, my soccer jersey and shorts of course. And shoes. And then the face paint,” said Tanner Spear, from Cedar Hills.
Once an outfit is chosen, don’t forget to Instagram, Facebook and tweet it.
3. Get familiar with the international players
International players are recognized throughout commercials and matches that feature them. Being familiar with these players is helpful because they will likely be making big plays.
4. Pick a team
Those familiar with Team USA’s track record know the team doesn’t often advance as far as they would like.
That doesn’t mean Americans should stop watching if Team USA is eliminated from the competition. Some American fans choose to cheer for a country they’ve visited, served in or just like. Pick a backup team to follow throughout the competition, and look up its schedule as well as Team USA’s.
5. Download the theme song on iTunes
Every World Cup has a theme song, and this year’s song is brought to us by Pitbull and Jennifer Lopez.
“I jammed to the South Africa World Cup song for months. This year’s song is a pretty catchy song; I like it,” said Brenden Johnson, from Roseville, California.
Download it, jam to it, dance to it and get excited for the many games of soccer ahead.
