The World Cup tournament kicks off for the first time in Asia today. Even though soccer has not been widely played in Asia until recently, the month-long tournament is sure to stir up waves of enthusiasm around the region. It is hoped that soccer will become a sport that transcends national boundaries in Asia, as it already has done in Europe, Latin America and Africa. Instead of duking it out on a battlefield, Asian countries will be able settle their feuds on the soccer pitch.
The first World Cup tournament was held in 1930. The idea was to hold a tournament every four years, but World War II intervened, and there was a 12-year gap between the third tournament in 1939 and the first post-war one, which was held in 1950.
That the World Cup is finally being held in Asia and is being hosted by two countries that have a long and tangled relationship is very significant. Through this unusual arrangement, the people of these two countries will have the chance to let go of their historical hatred -- just as their officials have been forced to overcome enmity in order to coordinate the tournament. Such international cooperation highlights the positive effect of peaceful coexistence. Apart from the political, economic and military alliances left over from the Cold War era -- Asian countries can also promote cooperation and friendship through sports, as well as artistic and cultural exchanges.
As for the people of Taiwan, they can only stand on the side and envy because their nation failed to qualify for the tournament. Soccer did have a brief heyday in Taiwan during the 1960s, when the men's soccer team won an Asian championship. The women's soccer team also did very well in Asia -- far better than their Chinese counterpart.
Unfortunately, the government did not place much importance on soccer and the sport gradually fell into disfavor as emphasis was placed on baseball and basketball. In addition, military personnel dominated the soccer association for a long time, which led to problems, including the improper use of funds and personnel difficulties. Soccer players who played for teams run by some schools and businesses also faced difficulties when it came time to hang up their cleats and find a job. As a result, the soccer fad faded away in less than a decade.
Soccer requires not only hard practice and individual skills but also team spirit. Irrespective of a player's nationality, race or religion, excellent results can be attained only when both two conditions are met. European and Latin American teams long dominated World Cup play. However, the rise of Cameroon's soccer team in recent years means a better chance for an African nation to win the Cup someday soon. Outstanding performances are not gained by fluke -- the African teams have gained success despite their lack of money -- compared to European and Latin American teams -- because of a fierce commitment to improve their national teams.
It is hoped that this year's World Cup can further bring about an atmosphere of cooperation and understanding in Asia. The close collaboration shown between Japan and South Korea has deepened our belief that Asians have learned to use more civilized and reasonable means to reconcile historical differences and hatred.
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