The US men's national team is on the verge of history, one win away from matching their best-ever run in the World Cup's modern era. After Wednesday's victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, American soccer finds itself in the spotlight at home, playing with more verve and quality than ever before.
Reluctance to Support the US Team
For longtime US soccer fans, supporting this team is second nature. But newcomers may feel uncomfortable cheering for a US national sports team, given the country's controversies. From the baseball team's military propaganda to the hockey team's cozying up to political power, there are ample reasons for discomfort. Beyond sports, the US government's misdeeds over years or generations give pause. However, these qualms can coexist with other truths.
Global Parallels and Shared Dilemmas
The US is not alone in this dilemma. Germans struggled to celebrate their team after World War II. Iran's fanbase is deeply divided over Team Melli's role, with fans booing the national anthem and wearing protest shirts, yet cheering passionately when their team scores. Similarly, Americans can separate the team from the government.
Why This Team is Worth Rooting For
This USMNT represents the nation's diversity, with a coach who considers himself 200% Argentinian. The players have trained for years, making sacrifices to reach the pinnacle of their game. They live in or grew up in the US, or chose to represent it. Unlike much of the soccer world, their experiences are implicitly understood by Americans, unrelated to government actions.
The Real Attraction: Community and Joy
The team is temporary, but the real attraction lies in the people around you. In international soccer, joy comes from being part of a crowd riding the same emotional wave. Landon Donovan's 2010 World Cup goal against Algeria is remembered not for the play's details, but for where fans were and who they were with. If the US triumphs against Belgium, thousands will experience pure joy—neighbors, friends, co-workers. These moments create unity where none existed before.
Week by week, the US men have demonstrated their own ideals. It is a free country; you are welcome to reject them. But when joy is on the line, how could you?
