"Tetsu" and other phenomena, and the World Cup

I don't know so much about Japanese phenomena like manga(comics) or animation or video games or "Cosplay (costume play)." But I often read about such phenomena in the paper or hear about them on the news. Are you into any of them? If yes, why are you into them? What interests you about them? What is so fascinating, so intriguing? To be honest, I don't really understand, so any information or knowledge would help me understand better I think.



What Japanese phenomena would you like to see exported abroad?
Read here:
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/mail/fl20100413vf.html

About me, I am interested in sports. And soon the World Cup will begin. It is being held in South Africa. Last week, Japan's team was officially announced. What did you think? How far in the tournament do you think Japan will go? Do you think they will advance to the second round? How about the Best 8? Semi-finals? Finals?
My prediction: Japan will not win a game.
But my prediction about America's Team is much brighter: They will win it all!! They will become World Cup Champions for the first time ever!!! Go America!!!