i don't think it's all that different from basketball or hockey. lower scores, but the principles are similar.

personally, i think the problem is, as you say, that there are a lot of other sports already established. the fact that, until recently, there were no professional teams or systems in place meant soccer has been viewed as a sport you play as a kid, but don't really pursue seriously. the MLS has changed that, but more in some areas than others. LA has two MLS teams and they both sell out regularly. that's progress, especially since southern California is one of the places that produces the most professional atheletes, but you're not getting the same thing in other key areas like Florida, Texas or Ohio.

it IS getting better though. we're getting every single game on ABC or ESPN. 8 years ago more than half the games were only available on pay-per-view, and when i was a kid you'd only get US games and the final on TV. ratings are, apparently, higher than ever. when big european club teams come here for promotional friendlies, they typically sell out months in advance. that means it is gaining acceptance...