Soccer has taken America by storm. After years as an also-ran in international competition, the U.S. Men’s National Team finds itself ranked among the planet’s best as it seeks an unprecedented sixth straight appearance in the FIFA World Cup, to be held in South Africa in 2010. The U.S. team is filled with an amazing collection of young talent, including players competing at the highest levels of European club soccer or starring in America’s flourishing Major League Soccer. There has never been a better time to be a fan of this sport. Packed with dynamic photos, authoritative text, and the latest stats, USA Soccer is the perfect introduction to the U.S. Men’s National Team as it prepares for the next World Cup. Who is going to lead the U.S. to greatness? Player profiles tell fans everything they want to know about their favorites–established stars like Landon Donovan, DaMarcus Beasley, Tim Howard, and Carlos Bocanegra, as well as promising youngsters like Jozy Altidore, Michael Bradley, and Sacha Kljestan. What makes the team click? Meet the brain trust behind the team, including head coach Bob Bradley and top assistant Peter Nowak. How tough is the road to the World Cup? Get the lowdown on the challengers in the tough CONCACAF region, including archrival Mexico, as well as a preview of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the teams expected to contend for the championship. Though this volume will focus on the current team, it will also take a look back at U.S. soccer success from the recent past. Recall your favorite moments and players from the last 20 years of Men’s National Team competition, from qualifying for the 1990 World Cup to hosting the event in 1994 to reaching the quarterfinals in 2002. Paul Caligiuri, Eric Wynalda, Alexi Lalas, Claudio Reyna, and many other greats will come to life on the pages of USA Soccer.
