US soccer team struggles with lack of home support
For the US men’s national soccer team, playing at home hasn’t always meant having the crowd on their side. Documentary filmmaker Rand Getlin reveals that the team often feels devastated by being outnumbered by rival fans during key matches. The new HBO docuseries “U.S. Against the World” explores the emotional and mental challenges faced by stars like Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie. The series also highlights the pressure on the team to win over American fans and change perceptions of soccer in the country.
What we know
- Rand Getlin spent four years with the US team to create the HBO docuseries “U.S. Against the World.”
- The team has repeatedly played major matches in US stadiums dominated by rival fans, such as Mexico and Guatemala.
- The series covers the sacking of Gregg Berhalter and the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino as head coach less than two years before the World Cup.
- Christian Pulisic faced harsh criticism for skipping the Gold Cup, leading to significant mental health struggles.
- The documentary aims to help American fans connect emotionally with the team and boost support ahead of the World Cup.
