United States 1994 – Away

The 1994 FIFA World Cup in the United States was a landmark event for soccer in the country, serving as a catalyst for the sport's growth and popularity. As the host nation, the United States had the opportunity to showcase its passion for soccer and its ability to organize a major international tournament.

Tournament Overview: The 1994 World Cup featured 24 teams competing across nine host cities in the United States. It was the first World Cup held in a country outside of Europe and South America, symbolizing the globalization of soccer. The tournament captured the imagination of American sports fans and attracted significant attention both domestically and internationally.

Performance of the United States National Team: The United States national team, led by coach Bora Milutinović, participated in the World Cup for the first time since 1950. The team's performance in the tournament was respectable but not spectacular. In the group stage, the United States secured draws against Switzerland and Colombia but suffered a 1-0 defeat to Romania. Despite finishing third in their group, the United States did not advance to the knockout stages.

Legacy and Impact: Despite their early exit from the tournament, the 1994 World Cup left a lasting legacy for soccer in the United States. The tournament set attendance records, with an average attendance of over 68,000 spectators per match, demonstrating the growing interest in the sport. It also helped stimulate investment in soccer infrastructure and youth development programs across the country.

The success of the 1994 World Cup laid the foundation for the launch of Major League Soccer (MLS) in 1996, providing a professional platform for soccer in the United States. The league's establishment, along with the continued growth of youth soccer and the popularity of international competitions, has contributed to the steady rise of soccer in American sports culture.