It’s time for the young 2012-2013 season’s first international break, and contrary to my normal reactions, I’m actually pretty excited for this one. The last few international breaks have featured the USMNT squaring off in friendlies against opponents preparing for other tournaments, meaning they’ve all been devoid of any of the passion and desire that makes an international fixture entertaining. This time, however, the Yanks are actually playing two meaningful, relevant World Cup Qualifying matches.

My excitement is likely also buoyed by the fact that I’m actually heading to one of those relevant matches, the second qualifier against Jamaica in Columbus on 9/11. I’m planning on prowling the Crew Stadium parking lot prior to kickoff to take pictures of the tailgating fans. So if you see me walking around with my wife in the new striped US kit, feel free to stop me and say hello… you might just end up with your face on the blog!

Anyway, here are some links to keep you entertained in the mean time.

Grown men wearing full kits in public. – richardp1975.wordpress.com

Sir Alex personally handling United transition to Guardiola? – mundodeportivo.com

This is seriously big for Australian football. – espnfc.com

I can juggle all the way to… potato. – rasenreich.com

Only a rumor, but potentially bad news for Revs fans. – thedrugisfootball.com

Having conquered one natural disaster, Boca now on to tsunamis. – kckrs.com

The US finally has 24-hour, soccer-only radio! – nasn.tv

Nike’s clever: Iniesta as a puppet with the new CTR360’s. – youtube.com

No more jokes. This is actually getting pretty sad now. – whoateallthepies.tv

The official 2014 World Cup ball’s name… Brazil + Bazooka = BRAZUCA?
– footballshirtculture.com