U.S. Soccer Looks to Rediscover Glory as World Cup Approaches

Marcelo Balboa, a former star of the U.S. World Cup squad, is eagerly anticipating the start of the 2026 World Cup, which kicks off this Friday in Los Angeles. It has been 32 years since the U.S. last hosted the tournament, and Balboa reflects on how the landscape of soccer has evolved since then.

This year’s World Cup marks a shift from the 24-team event held in 1994; it will now feature 48 teams and will be co-hosted by Canada and Mexico. The current political climate between the countries adds an interesting layer of complexity to the tournament, especially considering the dynamics between the nations involved.

As the U.S. prepares for their opening match against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium, Balboa reminisces about the 1994 team, which was known for its talent and unity. “The U.S. has had few shining moments on the sport’s biggest stage,” he noted, recalling the team’s memorable victory over England in 1950. The 1994 squad, featuring notable players like Tony Meola, Alexi Lalas, and Eric Wynalda, made a significant impact on American soccer, laying the groundwork for Major League Soccer.

Balboa expressed hope for the current team’s performance, saying, “I think we’ll find out what impresses us tomorrow or what doesn’t impress us after the game.” He acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the goalkeeper position, unlike in previous years when the U.S. had clear choices like Tim Howard and Casey Keller. “Now, everybody’s questioning — is it going to be Freese? Is it going to be Turner?” he added.

The political backdrop of U.S. Soccer remains fraught, particularly with the recent coaching changes and instability. Balboa pointed out the challenges faced by the national team, emphasizing the need for a solid performance on the world stage. “You’re only as good as the product you put on the field,” he remarked, highlighting that this World Cup is a critical moment for American soccer.

As the U.S. team aims to build on the legacy of its predecessors, Balboa remains optimistic. “We’re still trying to close the gap,” he stated, acknowledging the strides made since 1994 and expressing confidence in the dedication of the current roster to elevate American soccer.