Thirty-two years ago, the US hosted its first FIFA World Cup. The men's national team was anonymous, wearing denim uniforms. Soccer lacked mainstream popularity. But the tournament changed everything. Members of that squad-Alexi Lalas, Cobi Jones, John Harkes, Marcelo Balboa-reunited to recount the summer that transformed the sport stateside.
Bora And The Bootcamp
Manager Bora Milutinović arrived with a pedigree-guiding Costa Rica and Mexico deep into prior World Cups. His methods frustrated players, but after winning the 1991 Gold Cup, the team bought in. Balboa called translating for Bora "awful" but said winning made them believe.
The 'Miracle On Ice' Moment
After drawing Switzerland, the US faced Colombia at the Rose Bowl. The 2-1 upset was the US soccer equivalent of the 1980 Miracle on Ice. Six players had no club team; Lalas and Jones played only internationally.
Brazil Breaks America's Hearts
In the Round of 16 on July 4, Brazil midfielder Leonardo elbowed Tab Ramos, hospitalizing him. Despite the red card, Brazil's Bebeto scored in the 72nd minute, ending USA's run.
Looking Ahead To This Summer
The World Cup returns to North America in 2026. Harkes believes the current team can go farther than 2002. Lalas: "Gotta have dreamers." The tournament runs June 11-July 19, 2026, across three countries. Final at MetLife Stadium.