WORLD CUP

Sir:
I have long loved SI but was most dismayed to see the negative
bias shown toward the West German soccer team (Tango Argentino!, July
7). I could not believe that Clive Gammon wrote that the West Germans
sneaked by France on a ''lucky'' goal. The Germans displayed a
patience that enabled them to stifle many of the better teams.
Such negative remarks were not limited to SI. NBC's British
play-by-play man went into various tirades about the Germans,
calling them boring and not very good. Commentator Rick Davis,
however, did his best to stick up for the Germans, pointing out that
if they weren't very good, what were they doing in the finals?
Next time Gammon writes about the Germans perhaps he could use
adjectives such as hard-hitting and patient instead of ''lucky'' and
''workmanlike.'' Their tough defense was a delight to the true soccer
fan.
Incidentally, can you tell me why the Germans wore green when
it is not the color of their flag?
NICHOLAS GUETHE
Brooklyn
-- The West German flag is black, red and gold. The country's
soccer team usually wears white jerseys with black shorts, but
because Argentina's uniforms are quite similar, for the final the
Germans agreed to wear green and white -- their reserve colors -- as
a concession to viewers with black and white TVs (see picture at
left). -- ED.
Sir:
I would like to commend Clive Gammon for his prediction that
Argentina, and not the favored Brazilians, would win the 1986 World
Cup (Shootout In Mexico, June 2). I lived in Argentina during the
1982 World Cup and remember the disappointment of the Argentine
people as their team failed to defend its 1978 championship. I can
only imagine the happiness of a struggling Argentina now that they
have won back the title they lost four years ago.
I'm sure the Argentines would be pleased to learn that the United
States' best sports magazine knew all along that Argentina would
win back the Cup.
THOMAS E. NORMAN
Richland, Wash.
Sir:
As a devout soccer fan and one who appreciates world-class
athletes, I thoroughly enjoyed Clive Gammon's article on the World
Cup final and its brilliant star, Diego Maradona.
The mark of a champion is clearly etched in Maradona's outstanding
leadership qualities and his respect for teammates as well as
opponents, not to mention his electrifying soccer skills.
ANGELA ORLINO
Stow, Ohio
Sir:
It's about time! Finally the world's most popular sport appears on
your cover. I hope that your excellent coverage of soccer will
continue.
STORMS REBACK
Charlottesville, Va.

Photo(s):

PAUL BERESWILL Earlier, West Germany wore white and black.