1.   The key issue is the amount of money the host nations are prepared to pay competing countries.

2.   As the host nation, the United States qualifies automatically.

3.   As host nation, France has a disproportionate edge.

4.   Because Olympic soccer is contested at various sites around the host nation, soccer players often feel left out at the beginning of the Games.

5.   Beyond the drama of the host nation trying to knock off Goliath, the world will be treated to a glimpse of the evolution of a superstar.

6.   A single host nation must be in firm control, but it is high risk for the host, whose prestige is on the line.

7.   But it advanced to the second round thanks to the charity of the host nation.

8.   Canada automatically qualifies as the host nation.

9.   Central Command declined to say where the forklift accident occurred, saying the host nation did not want to be identified.

10.   Finally, many now living abroad are happy to continue doing so, and host nations such as Germany have come under pressure not to force their return.