The national team used to feel like part of your extended family, you knew the team, you knew what the players were capable of or not, you'd get excited about seeing them and had genuine high hopes for them. They usually failed in their quest for glory but you were proud of them for trying, because they did their best and were probably mugged by a referee.
I don't feel that connect anymore. I don't know what players we have beyond the regulars. I'll still support them and hope they do well though.