This Is American Soccer, US Soccer, MNT, WNT, and MLS - Tackling the subject of Soccer in the US, and worldwide.

A lot of news this week, but little more than wire stories. Most shocking (in a good way) to me were reports that Toronto has sold more than 10,000 season tickets. I would wager that’s better than at least a few NBA and NHL teams. Runner-up for astonishing news goes to Greg Lalas, who takes a ‘Ye-Ha’ page out of his brother’s book of buffoonery, hailing the US MNT’s bright future after one game. Hey, he told me to go ahead and call him names. So. Ok. Greg. You’re an idiot.

The rest of this week’s informative, yet not quite as shocking, highlights are after the jump.

The various national teams have been pretty busy this week. The U20 NT qualified for their world cup, but still have work to do according to Andrea Canales. The ladies played to a draw against Germany in the 4 Nations tune-up. Let’s hope these friendly round-robins are used more often for all the national teams. MLS is shaping up for what looks like a storyline-filled season; Reyna being the latest to throw his hat in the ring. Speaking of hats, and on a personal note, I’m psyched Justin Mapp is finally getting some respect. It’s amazing what one play/goal/assist can do for a player’s reputation (Dempsey anyone). Mapp has long been a favorite of mine; it’s just too bad Andrea Canales’ feature is more than a year overdue.

Beckham news hasn’t fully evaporated yet. The AP found a new angle by asking more questions. How do you say Beckham in Spanish? It’s still Beckham? Who knew? This whole episode is really one big question mark. And when you have questions, sometimes you get a little actual reporting. Looking for a good sports article? Your best bet is to look outside the sports section, where your chances of in depth reporting beyond the laundry list of clichés is more likely part of the recipe. The NY Times business section finally has their breakdown of Beckham’s impact on American soccer; hint: he’s compared to Anna Kournikova. Funny, the Wall Street Journal had this story the day after the transfer was announced. And last and least, according to People Magazine, Fox – the lovely people who bring you trash (Nanny 911 anyone?) and the people who stand atop the trash heap (Fox News), not to mention a little network called FSC – has offered the Beckhams a reality TV show. Big Surprise: Fox owns the broadcast rights for MLS.