Former United States soccer captain Landon Donovan believes the American national team must capitalize on the rare opportunity of hosting a World Cup on home soil, emphasizing that success should be measured by both performance and creating memorable moments that could boost soccer’s popularity nationwide.
The 44-year-old, famous for his dramatic last-minute goal against Algeria in 2010 that advanced the U.S. to the knockout rounds, stressed that expectations should be elevated for the co-hosting nation.
“For our team, the expectations are you have to get out of the group,” Donovan told Reuters during an interview while promoting his partnership with Nestle.
“I think in this case, a home World Cup with a very favorable group, the expectation should be that we win the group,” he said.
“When you win the group you allow yourself a much easier path to get a deep run into the tournament.”
Beyond tournament results, Donovan emphasized the importance of creating spectacular moments that could captivate American audiences, referencing his own 2010 goal and goalkeeper Tim Howard’s remarkable 16-save performance against Belgium in 2014 as examples of plays that helped expand soccer’s reach in America.
“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.”
Donovan noted that the tournament’s impact could extend far beyond viewership numbers or attendance figures, potentially creating new supporters who might remain devoted to the sport for years to come.
While recognizing concerns about expensive ticket prices, Donovan encouraged fans to find ways to participate in the tournament experience, whether through stadium attendance or community viewing events.
“This is going to be the biggest sporting event in the history of the planet,” he said. “It is truly once in a lifetime.”
The former captain acknowledged that U.S. players will face significant pressure while also having an unprecedented opportunity, noting that getting off to a strong start will be essential.
“If we score early in the first game, the momentum will start to build positively,” he said. “Our team is absolutely good enough to be really special and make a good run through this tournament.”
When discussing which American players might become breakout stars, Donovan highlighted Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie.
He suggested that midfielder Pulisic, who played four seasons at Chelsea before moving to AC Milan, could reach an even broader audience despite his existing recognition. Donovan also believes McKennie’s playing style and character could make him a prominent figure with strong performances.
The United States will kick off their World Cup campaign on Friday in Inglewood against Paraguay in Group D.
