2010 World Cup

In the last week, der Spiegel has featured a couple of articles regarding the multicultural diversity represented in the German football team as it moves into the semi-finals of the 2010 World Cup.  Eleven of the 23 team members are of immigrant descent.  The Turkish-born German Mesut Özil scored a winning goal in the recent match against Ghana, which is said to have caused a great deal of controversy for many in Germany.

Immigrants Defend the Flag while Left-Wing Germans Tear it Down (June 29)

An Inspiring New Face for Germany’s National Team (July 2)

Neo-Nazis Spurn Germany’s Diverse New National Team (July 2)

During my last two trips to Berlin, I’ve seen scores of stickers related to football ultras, i.e., hardcore fan clubs that express strong political stances left and right.  I’ve also included below a shot of handwritten graffiti “Freedom for Ultras” and “A.C.A.B.” (all cops are bastards).  Apparently A.C.A.B. is a popular punk chant at some football matches.  More reading for SK.