There was no way I was going to let a breakaway soccer opponent score on me while my dad was in the stands.

Memories of my experience as my high school’s starting goalie are coming back to me this week as the United States hosts the 2026 FIFA World Cup—something we have not done since 1994.

Back then, Americans had little interest in soccer—even though it has long been widely considered the world’s most popular sport.

According to History.com, forms of soccer have been played around the world for more than 2,000 years.

Its simplicity is the reason for its popularity. All you need is a ball and a patch of grass—no expensive pads or helmets are necessary.

Organized soccer dates back to England in 1863, when various teams formed an association and began to standardize the rules of the game.

In 1930, the FIFA World Cup was born. This international competition takes place every four years.........

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