'Heroic,' 'hapless,' and 'disgrace': The most common words used to describe each World Cup team
The U.S. men's soccer team was "determined," "heroic," and "courageous." At least that was how the English-language media most often described them, according to a study by the Cambridge University Press.
As for other teams in the tournament, Italy was most frequently called "slow" and "vulnerable," while Russia was portrayed as "drab." The most common word associated with Ghana was "money." (The team made headlines by threatening to boycott a game against Portugal unless they were paid ahead of time.) And the Uruguayans, fronted by Luis "I crave human flesh" Suarez, got the worst coverage of anyone. The top two words tied to the team: "Bite" and "disgrace."
The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.
Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.
