The United States hosted the FIFA World Cup in 1994 despite having almost no soccer culture. The tournament faced doubt from fans worldwide and resistance from Americans themselves. Yet it became one of the most successful World Cups in history and transformed the sport in America.
A Host Nation That Did Not Want Soccer
When FIFA awarded the 1994 World Cup to the United States, many questioned the decision. The country had appeared in only two World Cups since 1950. No professional league had existed for nearly a decade.
American media openly mocked the tournament. One columnist declared that rejecting soccer was part of American identity, comparing it to pickup trucks and weekend television. Traditional sports fans worried that a successful World Cup might threaten football, basketball, baseball, and hockey.
Meanwhile, international observers feared the opposite. They worried American investment might eventually dominate global football. Both groups watched nervously as the tournament approached.
FIFA Chose Money Over Tradition
FIFA president João Havelange saw enormous commercial potential in the American market. The decision prioritized business over football heritage, and critics noticed immediately.
The vote took place on July 4, 1988. The United States defeated Morocco 10-7, with Brazil receiving two votes. Some European football leaders openly opposed hosting tournaments in countries without strong soccer traditions. They viewed it as selling the sport to corporate interests.
Glamour and Chaos Defined the Tournament
The 1994 World Cup delivered Hollywood-style spectacle alongside genuine disorder. Las Vegas hosted the draw ceremony featuring President Bill Clinton and movie stars including Faye Dunaway and Jeff Bridges.
The opening ceremony at Soldier Field in Chicago featured Oprah Winfrey, Diana Ross, and performances from major musicians. However, problems emerged immediately. Winfrey injured her ankle falling off stage. Ross missed an open goal from close range during a staged moment.
The opening match between Germany and Bolivia attracted little excitement. Worse still, the OJ Simpson police chase dominated American television that same day, pushing World Cup coverage aside.
Logistical Challenges Tested Everyone
Organizers faced unique problems. Several stadiums used artificial turf, requiring natural grass installation at venues including the Pontiac Silverdome. The vast distances between host cities created travel nightmares for teams.
Kickoff times favored European television audiences rather than player welfare. Matches scheduled for midday and early afternoon forced athletes to compete in brutal heat and humidity.
Italy’s Heartbreaking Journey to the Final
Italy entered the tournament under Arrigo Sacchi, a revolutionary coach who had transformed AC Milan. Sacchi was famously superstitious and despised receiving good luck wishes before matches.
The night before Italy faced Ireland in their opener, Italian President Oscar Luigi Scalfaro called to wish the team luck. Italy promptly lost, confirming Sacchi’s fears.
Despite early struggles, Italy reached the final against Brazil. Captain Franco Baresi recovered from a knee injury to start the match. The game produced little excitement and ended goalless after extra time.
Penalties Decided the Championship
For the first time in World Cup history, the final required a penalty shootout. Baresi missed Italy’s first kick, sending his shot over the crossbar. Brazil’s Marcio Santos and Italy’s Daniele Massaro both failed to convert.
Roberto Baggio, Italy’s star player, needed to score Italy’s fifth penalty to keep his team alive. He sent his shot over the bar. Brazil claimed their fourth World Cup title.
Brazil’s Complicated Homecoming
Brazil celebrated with a national holiday following the victory. However, the returning players did not receive the hero’s welcome previous champions enjoyed.
A dispute over import taxes at Recife airport created a five-hour standoff between players and customs officials. The finance minister eventually intervened. A subsequent poll revealed that most Brazilians believed the players should have paid the duties.
The incident reflected changing attitudes toward football stars in Brazilian society. Players were no longer untouchable national icons.
The Tournament’s Lasting Impact
Despite initial skepticism, the 1994 World Cup shattered attendance records and proved Americans would embrace international soccer. The tournament averaged over 68,000 fans per match, figures that remain impressive decades later.
Major League Soccer launched two years later, directly resulting from commitments made during the hosting bid. The 1994 World Cup planted seeds that continue growing as the United States prepares to co-host the 2026 tournament.
