How about Germany? Pundits across the globe had their doubts the hosts would even be good enough to get out of their group, let alone coast their way to the quarterfinals. But coast they have,
prompting Germany's famously reserved national public to wave the flag like never before. German flag-waving is a new phenomenon in the 21st Century, the New York Times points out, "long weighted by
the country's postwar reluctance about open displays of national pride." Almost overnight, it's become fashionable to be nationalistic in Germany again. A newfound exuberance is now there for the
hosts of the World Cup, who's national team has proven to be something to cheer about. Critics across Germany have been forced to eat their words about Coach Jurgen Klinsmann's tactics, especially
after their comfortable 2-0 victory over a tricky Swedish side. Indeed, flag-waving is the No. 2 topic in Germany these days, after the tournament itself of course, a change that could prove to be a
"cathartic moment for Germany."
Read the whole story at The New York Times »
