big ups to the boys as they finally have a good win versus one of the legitimate teams present. 2-0 win over Spain puts them in the finals versus Brazil probably. Don't think lightning can strike twice but small steps baby, small steps.

Some years ago I watched a soccer match with a Colombian neighbor. We were drinking beer and Aguadiente, a Colombian booze that looks like water, tastes like licorice, and works very well when you're not trying to walk or talk. The Americans won when a Colombian player put the ball into his own goal off a busted play and the Americans won the match.

Less than a year later that Colombian player was assassinated with one shot to the head in broad daylight on a crowded street.

That was a true story for certain. I think it was World Cup play.

It's good to be an American sports fan. And an old Brooklyn fart as well. Ralph Branca is still breathing.