The USA is not a soccer nation.It is really odd considering that soccer is the largest sport in the world, but like the metric system, we decided it just isn't for us.
That isn't to say we haven't had successes in the past, but they are few and far between.Our soccer team isn't even like basketball teams in other nations.
Those teams are closer to the USA Basketball program than we are to the best soccer teams.CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGECaptain Tim Ream leads the United States team onto the field during an open practice ahead of the 2026 World Cup at the Irvine Sports Complex in Irvine, California, on June 8, 2026.(Jamie Squire/Getty Images)Still, there has been some renewed hope for the squad this year.
I won't pretend to tell you that I know a ton about these players, but they've at least put up some respectable numbers against tougher competition.Over their past four matchups, dating back to March, the team is just 1-3 with at least two goals allowed in each game.
They've been shut out once, scored three, two and one goal. Paraguay is a soccer country.If you asked me to point it out on a map, I probably couldn't, but I can tell you it has improved its soccer team over the past few years.
Paraguay missed each of the past three World Cups by not qualifying, but that changed here as the team has made it for the first time since 2010.A lot of the credit is given to manager Gustavo Alfaro, who has a knack for developing young teams.ZERO BS.
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DOWNLOAD NOW!Folarin Balogun #20 of United States celebrates with teammates after scoring during the second half of the international friendly match between United States and Senegal at Bank of America Stadium on May 31, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina.(Cory Knowlton/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)On their squad they have a strong mix of younger players and veteran leadership.
It will be interesting to see how the team comes together against s...