How ‘Country Roads’ became the soundtrack of the US team’s World Cup run

John Denver's "Take Me Home, Country Roads" has become an unofficial anthem for the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team during their World Cup run, with players and fans singing it together after victories. The song's enduring appeal, according to the John Denver estate, lies in its universally relatable message of belonging. While the lyrics evoke West Virginia, the song was actually inspired by a drive through Maryland. Co-writer Bill Danoff drew inspiration from his childhood in western New England and his familiarity with Appalachian music. The song was famously recorded by John Denver after he convinced the original writers to let him perform it. FIFA officials reportedly added "Country Roads" to post-game playlists to foster a connection between the team and supporters, and it has been met with enthusiastic reception.

The United States men's national soccer team defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 to advance to the World Cup's last 16. Folarin Balogun scored the opening goal near halftime but was later sent off for a foul. Malik Tillman secured the victory with a second goal eight minutes from full-time. The win marked the USA's first knockout-stage victory in 24 years and ended a streak of 10 consecutive losses to European opponents. The team will next face Belgium in Seattle.

The United States men's soccer team defeated Bosnia-Herzegovina 2-0 on Wednesday night to advance to the World Cup round of 16. Folarin Balogun scored his third goal of the tournament in the first half, but was later sent off with a red card. Malik Tillman secured the win for the U.S. by converting a free kick in the 82nd minute. This victory marks the U.S.'s second World Cup knockout round win and sets up a match against Belgium in Seattle. The U.S. was favored in this round of 32 match, played in Santa Clara, California.

Christian Pulisic has returned to the starting lineup for the United States in their World Cup knockout round match against Bosnia-Herzegovina. Pulisic had been sidelined by a calf injury sustained during the group stage, missing one game and playing limited minutes in another. U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino is fielding the same starting eleven that began the tournament, which includes Pulisic. Additionally, four key players—Folarin Balogun, Tyler Adams, Antonee Robinson, and Chris Richards—are back in the starting lineup after sitting out the previous game due to yellow card accumulation. The team had secured the top spot in their group, allowing them to rest these players without risking suspension in the knockout stage where all players begin with clean records.

The United States men's national soccer team is set to play Bosnia-Herzegovina in the World Cup Round of 32 on Wednesday, aiming to win their first knockout match in 24 years. Their last and only knockout win was in 2002 against Mexico. Star player Christian Pulisic is healthy and ready to play after a calf injury. The U.S. team is favored to advance against Bosnia, despite a history of 0-3 in knockout matches since 2002. Coach Mauricio Pochettino apologized for his previous curt tone to the media after a loss to Turkey. Other World Cup Round of 32 matches include England vs. Congo and Belgium vs. Senegal.

The US men's national soccer team faces Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup round of 32 on Wednesday in Santa Clara, California. After a strong group stage, including wins against Paraguay and Australia, the US aims to regain momentum and credibility following a recent 3-2 loss to Turkiye. Coach Mauricio Pochettino has adjusted the lineup and tactics, favoring a high-pressing 4-2-3-1 formation. Despite the loss to Turkiye, the team remains optimistic about advancing further in the tournament. The US team's performance against European opponents has historically been challenging, with only one win since 1950.