Overly ambitious owners, poor investments, aging players have all played a part in the history of American soccer. In 1960s America's Soccer League was established. Although it spent as a major league, attendances weren't reflective of that. Indoor soccer began to take over in the 1970s. The resulting MISL folded in 1992, but its legacy remains firmly rooted in the current American soccer pyramid.
Major League Soccer
Despite the success of the American League of Professional Football, Major League Soccer's history in the US has been somewhat obscure. It was established in 1996. There were 10 teams, and it was then divided into two conferences: Eastern and Western. The popularity of Basketball and Football in the USA meant that the sport was initially overlooked. It was not until many years later that it began to gain popularity. With over 300 participating teams, the league is now one of America's most beloved sports.
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In the late 1800s soccer was played on American soil for the first time. After the Great Depression, soccer was a huge success. In the 1920s, the American Soccer League was founded. Its foundation teams were drawn from cities. The US hosted more World Cups as the game became more popular. Today, the US boasts more soccer fans than any country. Here is a brief history about American soccer.
U.S. Men's National Team
Numerous appearances by the U.S. Men's National Team have been made at major international tournaments. The most notable was the 1994 FIFA Under-17 World Cup win. In 2002, they went on winning the CONCACAF Gold Cup. They beat Canada in overtime in August 1994 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. This was the first time the United States defeated Canada in a game, and it set a record in U.S. soccer history.
Women's National Team
In 1987, the women's national team was founded and began playing competitive international soccer. The team played several games in Italy but had mixed results. They lost three games against Denmark, and drew one. The team's greatest win came in a game against the Soviet Union, which the US won 8-0. However, the team didn't enjoy a long-lasting success.
U.S. athletes make World Cup appearances
The U.S. National Team Men's will make its fourth World Cup appearance with this year’s qualifiers. The U.S. Men's National Team won four of the qualifying rounds and drew one. The U.S. men’s nation team won the Nike U.S. Cup Gold Cup, and they won the World Cup. This is the first time that the U.S. has ever won the Gold Cup.