'Kids know Lamine as well as they know LeBron': World Cup excitement builds in the US

The United States is buzzing with anticipation for the upcoming World Cup, with fans like Thomas Guzman, a supporter of the US men's national soccer team, noting a significant shift in the sport's popularity.

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When I was a kid in school, nobody liked soccer. It’s very Venezuelan, very Cuban, a lot of baseball.

Guzman recalled being an outlier growing up in Miami, where soccer was less popular than baseball and dominated by Venezuelan and Cuban cultural influences. Today, however, he sees a dramatic change. "When I would tell my friends I’m a US fan, they would look at me shocked. But I’ve had the same friends now for like 20 years, and they are now big US soccer fans because of me. The game is growing," he said.

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When I would tell my friends I’m a US fan, they would look at me shocked. But I’ve had the same friends now for like 20 years, and they are now big US soccer fans because of me. The game is growing.

This growing enthusiasm is palpable at fan events, such as the one in Los Angeles where fans gathered to watch Mexico's opening World Cup game. Guzman traveled from Florida to attend the US's opener against Paraguay, highlighting the dedication of fans who are planning extended stays in host cities. Events across the country, from Tennessee to Missouri and Alabama, have seen massive crowds turn out for international friendlies, indicating a rising interest in the sport.

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There’s hype. I talked to my friends, my family – they're excited. Everyone’s excited. When I got here, people were on the aeroplane with soccer jerseys.

Despite the excitement, challenges remain. Veteran journalist Steven Goff noted that high ticket prices and FIFA's "general bad image" have cast a shadow over the tournament. Fans have voiced strong criticism regarding the prohibitive cost of attending matches, with many cities also facing scrutiny for expensive transportation options. However, Goff believes that a strong performance by the host teams, particularly the US, could help to overcome these negative perceptions and elevate the tournament's profile.

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The high prices and general bad image of FIFA have cast a negative light on the tournament. A strong start by the host teams, particularly the US, would help elevate things.