The success of South American clubs so far in the FIFA CWC has been eye-opening to a lot of people. Brazil arguably has a top 5 league. It also points to something USL needs to take a hard look at. Starting a Division One league would allow USL representation in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Given how the CWC is going, it will become a quadrennial event. If an USL affiliated club can win the CCC and gain entry to the CWC, it would really change the dynamic of soccer in the US.
Great report Kartik! This is the reason for spending the money to support Beyond the 90.
Like Gavin said these games are just cash grabs. They attract Euro-snobs and some who just like all seeing good football.
It is important to support the leagues here. Someday all the players on the USNMT will be U.S. born if the players coming up thru the various teams academy get playing time in the MLS and USL.
The women's game already is producing top quality players and does not have to bring in Foreign nationals.
Not sure I agree about NWSL not having to bring in foreign nationals. If you look at their rosters, you'll see big name internationals. It's now an arms race against the English WSL, and other top clubs like Barcelona, and Lyon. USL Super League and the Canadian NSL may start pulling talent their way also. Liga MX Femenil is also recruiting.
The rise of NWSL has also led to the USL Super League becoming a favored destination for increasing numbers of US-based & -born players. Many US players may not be a starter on a NWSL team but can star at the USL Super League side.
FIFA CWC as much of a joke as ICC was. In addition everything about the Premier league soccer summer series or whatever it’s called snacks cash grab as well.
I hear what you’re saying about people who simply watch England, but the outright arrogance from fans of the Spanish and Italian game is far worse.
Let me explain why. You were complaining about people not participating in building the game here. You are right about that but as you imply, watching England is more popular than watching the domestic game. Those people who promote the Italian & Spanish teams assume if you watch primarily England, you are somehow ignorant or don’t know good soccer or are not sophisticated.
They are further alienating those who watch the most popular league in the world.
The success of South American clubs so far in the FIFA CWC has been eye-opening to a lot of people. Brazil arguably has a top 5 league. It also points to something USL needs to take a hard look at. Starting a Division One league would allow USL representation in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Given how the CWC is going, it will become a quadrennial event. If an USL affiliated club can win the CCC and gain entry to the CWC, it would really change the dynamic of soccer in the US.
Great report Kartik! This is the reason for spending the money to support Beyond the 90.
Like Gavin said these games are just cash grabs. They attract Euro-snobs and some who just like all seeing good football.
It is important to support the leagues here. Someday all the players on the USNMT will be U.S. born if the players coming up thru the various teams academy get playing time in the MLS and USL.
The women's game already is producing top quality players and does not have to bring in Foreign nationals.
Not sure I agree about NWSL not having to bring in foreign nationals. If you look at their rosters, you'll see big name internationals. It's now an arms race against the English WSL, and other top clubs like Barcelona, and Lyon. USL Super League and the Canadian NSL may start pulling talent their way also. Liga MX Femenil is also recruiting.
Sorry George, did not make my point clearly.
It was meant to be about the USWNT being in a better situation then the men's team as to where their players came from.
The NWSL will be a destination for many of the world's top players that do not end up in the WSL.
The rise of NWSL has also led to the USL Super League becoming a favored destination for increasing numbers of US-based & -born players. Many US players may not be a starter on a NWSL team but can star at the USL Super League side.
FIFA CWC as much of a joke as ICC was. In addition everything about the Premier league soccer summer series or whatever it’s called snacks cash grab as well.
I hear what you’re saying about people who simply watch England, but the outright arrogance from fans of the Spanish and Italian game is far worse.
Let me explain why. You were complaining about people not participating in building the game here. You are right about that but as you imply, watching England is more popular than watching the domestic game. Those people who promote the Italian & Spanish teams assume if you watch primarily England, you are somehow ignorant or don’t know good soccer or are not sophisticated.
They are further alienating those who watch the most popular league in the world.
How do you build a culture that way?