futbol v. soccer

Wednesday night, starting at 10:45 p.m. I enjoyed my first official Egyptian football game. 12 players, 6 on 6, with myself and Ryan (an Australian here for a four months) representing the white man. The game was played on a dirt field, and when I say dirt, i mean red, clay, destroy your shoes dirt. The kind that when inhaled, immediately turns to rock hard boogers. The field was half size, not too long, but wide enough to make you run.

Walking out onto the field, I was brought back to my days playing high school soccer games under the hot lights of Lomann field. My mission, don't embarrass myself and the rest of the United States of American with a poor showing on the pitch.

My play wasn't horrid. I managed to score a nice volley, assist a few goals, and not directly cause many goals. Playing on dirt was a new experience however. I'd never imagined my high school field (with grass) behind North Street school as a privileged place to play, but in comparison to what my Egyptians friends grew up on, it's a paradise. Playing on dirt means the ball never stops rolling translating into me forever underestimating how far they travel. There were a few mistakes, but nothing too bad.

By the end of the night, I was completely exhausted, drenched with sweat, but incredibly satisfied. Wednesday night football has officially become a fixture in my Caironian schedule. Next Wednesday, I'll be back. All you Egyptians better watch out.

Post about this past weekend in Dahab is coming. Weekend of snorkeling, drinking milkshakes, and some hard core lounging.