US men's team thriving in ongoing World Cup as football gains popularity

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 6, 2026, 2:00 AM

Last updated Jul 6, 2026

US men's team thriving in ongoing World Cup as football gains popularity

Summary

The US men's national team is currently hosting the World Cup and performing strongly. This event is accompanied by a growing interest in soccer across America, with fans from various backgrounds showing enthusiasm for the sport. Soccer correspondent Jeff Rueter discusses how the perception of football in the US is evolving. Historically seen as unloved and alien, soccer is gaining traction thanks to the tournament and traveling fan experiences.

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The Guardian Sport

Key Details

•US men's national team is competing in the ongoing World Cup.
•Historically, soccer has been viewed as boring and alien in the US.
•Growing interest observed among fans from diverse backgrounds.
•Soccer correspondent Jeff Rueter highlights the changing perceptions.

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2:00 AMThe Guardian Sport — Has the US finally fallen in love with football? – podcast

What they're saying

"
Has the success of the US men’s team – and hosting the World Cup – finally made Americans fall in love with football? With Guardian US soccer correspondent Jeff Rueter For decades, the US has been unmoved by the charms of the beautiful game. As Guardian US soccer correspondent Jeff Rueter, a boyhood fan of the sport, explains, football in America was a ‘ramshackle’ affair – unloved, boring, a little alien. But, Helen Pidd hears, things are beginning to change. The US men’s national team is thriving in the World Cup they are hosting, and Americans are being won over by travelling football teams and fans, from the Scots in Boston to Algerians in Kansas Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby Helen Pidd with Jeff Rueter; produced by Alex Atack, Casey Magloire and Ross Burns; executive producer Sami Kent

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Soccer