U.S. National Team Gears Up for World Cup with Enthusiastic Fan Support

IRVINE, Calif. (AP) — The U.S. national soccer team is embracing a unique experience this month as the host of the World Cup. On Monday, the 26 players took to the field at Great Park in Orange County, cheered on by thousands of fans who turned out to watch a practice session, reinforcing the significance of this moment.

The atmosphere was filled with optimism as the players began their training camp in Southern California, where they will remain for at least three weeks. Prior to this, the team gathered in Georgia and played two friendly matches within the last week. Their group stage matches in the World Cup will all occur on the West Coast, kicking off with their opener against Paraguay on Friday at SoFi Stadium, located about 50 miles away in Inglewood.

U.S. captain Tim Ream expressed the team's positive outlook, stating, “I think the group is in a really good place at the minute. We’ve all been, I wouldn’t say overwhelmed, but pleasantly surprised by the excitement and the buzz around the team and in the stadiums.” He highlighted the impressive turnout of approximately 5,500 fans at their training session, emphasizing that the team is in a strong mental and physical state heading into the tournament.

Fans had the opportunity to attend the practice after winning a spot through a lottery held among 32,000 applicants during FIFA's Community Day event. Coach Mauricio Pochettino engaged with the crowd, leading a “U-S-A!” chant while the team completed a workout. He praised the outstanding facilities and the welcoming atmosphere, remarking, “Great facilities and great people are an amazing combination. We are grateful, and I want to say a big thanks.”

The fan base has grown significantly since the World Cup last visited the U.S. in 1994, marking a shift in soccer's popularity in the country. Ream, recalling the 1994 tournament, noted the importance of this opportunity, urging his teammates to appreciate the moment. “This is unique. This is completely different from anything any of us has experienced,” he remarked, underscoring the significance of the occasion.

A key highlight from the practice was the full participation of defender Chris Richards, who had previously injured his left ankle playing for Crystal Palace. His return to training is a promising development as the team prepares to finalize their roster on Thursday evening.