Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleDonovan’s stoppage-time winner against Algeria at the 2010 World Cup remains one of the most celebrated goals in American soccer history (Getty Images)Landon Donovan, former United States captain, stated that success for the U.S. team at World Cup 2026 should be gauged by both strong results, including winning their group, and by generating iconic moments that foster football's growth in the country.Donovan cited his 2010 World Cup goal and Tim Howard's 2014 performance as examples of pivotal moments that can attract millions of new fans and significantly broaden the sport's appeal in the United States."One big moment in a big game literally creates millions of new fans," Donovan said. "In this country, we're not just players, we're ambassadors and we're trying to grow the sport." The 44-year-old said the tournament could have a lasting effect beyond TV ratings or ticket sales, creating new supporters who may become lifelong fans.He also stressed the critical need for the U.S. team to have a strong start, suggesting that an early goal in their opening match against Paraguay would build positive momentum and aid them in achieving a deep run in the tournament.Donovan identified Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie as key players with the potential to emerge as breakout stars, believing their performances and personalities could elevate their profiles considerably.Thank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in
Landon Donovan’s advice to US World Cup players as tournament kicks off
Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleDonovan’s stoppage-time winner against Algeria at the 2010 World Cup remains one of the most celebrated goals in American soccer history (Getty Images)Landon Donovan, former United States captain, stated that success for the U.S. team at World Cup 2026 should be gauged by both strong results, including winning their group, and by generating iconic moments that foster football's growth in the country.Donovan cited his 2010 World Cup goal and Tim Howard's 2014 performance as examples of pivotal moments that can attract millions of new fans and significantly broaden the sport's appeal in the United States."One big moment in a big game literally creates millions of new fans," Donovan said. "In this country, we're not just players, we're ambassadors and we're trying to grow the sport." The 44-year-old said the tournament could have a lasting effect beyond TV ratings or ticket sales, creating new supporters who may become lifelong fans.He also stressed the critical need for the U.S. team to have a strong start, suggesting that an early goal in their opening match against Paraguay would build positive momentum and aid them in achieving a deep run in the tournament.Donovan identified Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie as key players with the potential to emerge as breakout stars, believing their performances and personalities could elevate their profiles considerably.Thank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in
