USA: the incomparable growth of soccer

Dilan López The growth of US soccer is incomparable USA

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[{"selector":"#anim-265d6de4-68c4-4512-854a-13fbd42da6dc [data-leaf-element=\"true\"]","keyframes":{"transform":["translate3d(-33.52272686934576%, 0, 0)","translate3d(0%, 0, 0)"]},"delay":0,"duration":6000,"fill":"both"}] The USMNT qualified for Qatar 2022 in third place in CONCACAF, securing the last direct ticket on the final matchday giving them 25 points.

[{"selector":"#anim-4d2152e5-2baf-46ec-ac66-34b8f87391a6 [data-leaf-element=\"true\"]","keyframes":{"transform":["translate3d(-10.996834902970223%, 0, 0)","translate3d(0%, 0, 0)"]},"delay":0,"duration":6000,"fill":"both"}] The star performer for Gregg Berhalter's side in the CONCACAF qualification was Christian Pulisic, the USMNT's top scorer with five goals.

After qualifying, the USA have not found their best form, but Berhalter is confident his players will be at their peak for the opener against Wales.

[{"selector":"#anim-75fcac41-fac3-451d-8da6-9a51b7cccc4b [data-leaf-element=\"true\"]","keyframes":{"transform":["translate3d(-16.8853881983807%, 0, 0)","translate3d(0%, 0, 0)"]},"delay":0,"duration":6000,"fill":"both"}] The USMNT has gained popularity in a country where the sports culture has historically leaned towards baseball, football and basketball.

[{"selector":"#anim-8478b0c4-7e07-46c4-9fa3-9c71d676b835 [data-leaf-element=\"true\"]","keyframes":{"transform":["translate3d(0, 15.254237288135602%, 0)","translate3d(0, 0%, 0)"]},"delay":0,"duration":6000,"fill":"both"}] According to Gallup, soccer grew its fan base 52% in the US from 2012 to 2019. Approximately 80 million Americans are 'soccer fans'.

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