The entire world economy almost craters, thousands upon thousands of American families are thrown out into the streets ...

... and "Sports Bribes" are important ...

... go check the toilet ...

... I think the American Values we used to have are clogging the pipes ...

I would expect, perhaps, there may yet be a few surprises left in last 11 months of this term. And, welcome to DU.

Compared to what American gun owners get up to the violence at football matches is insignificant.

What does the behaviour of a few fans have to do with corruption at FIFA anyway? Most football matches are entirely peaceful affairs.

It's easy to sort out, use controlling orders to ban trouble makers from the grounds and confiscate passports. It works.

England fans have been praised for their behaviour during the fixture with Republic of Ireland in Dublin.

The FA proactively contacted all 3,000 travelling supporters last month following complaints from fellow England fans about an increase in anti-social behaviour during recent away games.

Official contact had also been made by FIFA to express concerns about anti-IRA chanting during the Threes Lions’ fixture against Italy in Turin.
And The FA’s call for fans to Follow England Away in the right way was heeded as Aviva Stadium witnessed a respectful and friendly atmosphere during Sunday’s 0-0 draw.

This was pleasing to note and comes on the back of on-going co-operation with relevant authorities, the Football Supporters’ Federation and the England Supporters Club.

“We would like to thank supporters for their exemplary behaviour inside Aviva Stadium yesterday and the respect they showed each other throughout the match," said Tony Conniford, The FA’s Head of Teams and Corporate Security.

“It’s pleasing to see both the fixture against Republic of Ireland at Wembley in 2013 and the recent match pass off incident-free and this is the result of a lot of behind-the-scenes work alongside the relevant authorities and internally at The FA.

“We hope that by continuing to work together we will ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all supporters following England home and away. The reputation of England supporters has made great strides over the years and we all want to see that continue.”

I was supporting your post with specific examples of that passion. Sorry. I'll not make that mistake in the future.

" It's important to keep things in perspective.

Some people think football is a matter of life and death. I don't like that attitude. I can assure them it is much more serious than that.

Bill Shankly."

They're thugs pure and simple. There's no need for violence. It spoils everything. Football is about building bridges. I can go anywhere in the World, (probably not America,) and have a long conversation with a complete stranger about the Beautiful Game.

Btw, if that's your way of supporting a statement, I could probably do without it.