USA vs. England: a World Cup rematch 60 years in the making

In 1950, the U.S. soccer team took the field in Belo Horizonte, Brazil as 500-1 long shots to win the World Cup. Their opponent were the “Kings of Football,” the English, who were 3-1 favorites to win it all. Behind the brilliant goal keeping of Frank Borghi, the U.S. was able to pull off one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history, defeating England 1-0. Tomorrow, team USA will try and pull off a similar upset as they begin their World Cup campaign with an opening match against England.

Who are you rooting for and why? How do you celebrate the teams? Special foods? Special rituals? Share your World Cup stories with us.

New York Times sports columnist George Vecsey brings the trans-Atlantic World Cup rivalry up to date with predictions for tomorrow’s game and a few key players to watch out for.