WORLD CUP CONNECTIONS

The Loons have a lot of ties to the World Cup, even with the U.S. staying home. Here are some of their rooting — and, in some cases, playing — interests:

Switzerland: Outside back Jerome Thiesson

England: Outside back Tyrone Mears, midfielder Harrison Heath and coach Adrian Heath

Colombia: Playmaker Darwin Quintero

Peru: Winger Alexi Gomez

Costa Rica: Center back Francisco Calvo and midfielder Johan Venegas (both playing)

Brazil: Midfielders Maximiano and Ibson