While club football is on a break for some time, players continue to play for their respective national teams. Due to the World Cup being in the winter this year, the summer is being used for friendlies, Uefa Nations League, and remaining qualifiers.
The USMNT took on Morocco in a friendly, hoping to build more chemistry within the squad leading up to their first world cup in 28 years.
Their performance was beyond exemplary, with Christian Pulisic standing out. The forward helped his team rout the African side 3-0, in the process, providing a class assist which had fans raving all over the internet.
However, during the post-match interview, Chelsea no.10 did not seem too happy. When asked about his thoughts about playing on home soil again, the American voiced his displeasure.
Pulisic responded, “It was nice. To be honest, for whatever reason, I’m not super happy with the amount of Americans here, however that works out if I’m being completely honest. Thanks to the ones who did come and the support is always great from them”
It is understandable why Pulisic was miffed at the lack of support in the stadium. After ages, the USMNT has a chance to make its mark on international football, and they need all the support they can get.
Although, he should not show his ire towards fans, but instead the high ticket prices that prevent many from attending matches. Prices for this match started at around $60, going higher in different parts of the arena.
In a post-pandemic world, many people may not be able to pay this much for a friendly match. For their next match in Kansas, ticket pricing begins at $45, with seats closer to the dugout ranging anywhere between $120 to $590.
If the United States Soccer Federation wants more fans to attend they need to reduce exorbitant prices and make them more fan-friendly. They must also hold matches in different locations, as fans have pointed out that supporters outside of the midwest feel left out.
With stars like Pulisic, George Weah, Weston McKennie, Giovanni Reyna, etc. the 2022 Qatar World Cup could be an exciting one. Hopefully, by the time the tournament starts, more fans can support their team.
