The 1994 USMNT World Cup: How a Squad of Underdogs Changed American Soccer Forever

The 1994 World Cup on home soil was a turning point for soccer in the United States, and the US Men's National Team (USMNT) delivered a performance that ignited a nation. With no expectations on their shoulders, the squad of mostly unknown players—led by talismanic goalkeeper Tony Meola, rugged defender Alexi Lalas, and sharp-shooting forward Eric Wynalda—captured the imagination of American fans. From the deafening roars at the Pontiac Silverdome to the unforgettable knockout stage clash agains...