This has been the most enjoyable World Cup of my memory, even with the often-lousy officiating. So many good match-ups and varying styles of play. As an adult convert to the game (I grew up watching only the American sports trinity of Baseball, American football and Basketball) I have finally figured out that, unlike the highlight-friendly nature of the dominant American sports, Football really rewards your undivided attention. The highlights of Germany v. Argentina, to name one example, tell you nothing if you didn't see how patiently and methodically Germany picked Argentina apart as the game went on.
As an American, I'm not sure I'll ever completely understand the point of the "offsides" rule; it seems to punish initiative, and that runs counter to our culture. It is thoroughly enjoyable to watch a half of play without commercial interruption, though. And unlike, say, the NFL or the NBA with their endless time-outs and coaching interference, it's wonderful that once a football game starts, the players are free to play the game. Lovely. I do think it's an accurate and not culture-dependent observation to note that the officiating in the major American sports is so much better than what we've seen in this World Cup, though. FIFA really needs to do something about this, and some sort of instant replay wouldn't hurt, either.
I was sorry to see the American team go out, but there was no shame in losing to Ghana. They were so fun to watch. Germany seems the clear favorite now with their combination of disciplined defense, brilliant counter attacks and athleticism. But what do I know, I thought Brazil would win it all just a few days ago. 😛