As Team USA gears up for their World Cup opener against Paraguay, Los Angeles buzzes with excitement and anticipation. President Trump has added his voice to the chorus of support, having recently sent a message of encouragement to the team. Standing before an eager crowd, Trump praised Coach Pochettino and the team as champions, ready to tackle whatever comes their way. Coach Pochettino, who graciously accepted the compliment, assured the President that his team, under his stellar leadership, will do everything possible to make the country proud.

In the bustling streets of Los Angeles, where enthusiasm for the World Cup is reaching a fever pitch, the soccer spectacle is generating quite a stir. Despite the focus of some Americans being seemingly glued elsewhere—like the NBA games or the hockey season—there’s no denying the magnitude of this global event. Hosting the World Cup is akin to staging multiple Super Bowls at once, with a staggering array of 104 matches taking place. There’s no shortage in the excitement department with 71 games happening right here on American soil. Even those who initially raised their eyebrows in confusion at soccer are getting swept up in the fervor, since no fewer than 6 million tickets have already been sold.

Even folks who know Brian Kilmeade mostly for his presence on Fox News are surprised to find he has an impressive soccer background of his own. Though he modestly downplays his playing career, he’s proud of how far soccer has come in the United States. This year’s Team USA is being hailed as their best so far—pound for pound—marked by 11 players competing at the sport’s highest level. Lovingly nicknamed the “golden generation,” these players have outdone themselves by excelling in the group phases. An exciting match is expected as Team USA prepares to face Paraguay, with memories of their previous fiery encounter still fresh.

Mauricio Pochettino, the celebrated coach from Argentina, has brought a touch of international flair and passion to Team USA. Having achieved success abroad, he’s embraced the American spirit wholeheartedly. His mantra, “Why not us?” serves as a rallying cry for the team, inspiring hope and camaraderie. With experts predicting that this team can at least reach the quarterfinals, the fans can’t help but dream big. After all, once they break into the top eight, who really says they can’t aim for victory on their home turf?

Amid the roar and fanfare of the event, there’s a delightful sprinkle of humor as some Europeans find themselves new to American pleasures. With tales of air conditioning discovery, late-night taste-tests at Taco Bell, and adjusting to America’s hot summers, soccer’s greatest festival is a melting pot of cultures. While others might wilt in the heat, Americans take pride in their ability to adapt, and a little friendly mockery serves as the ultimate icebreaker. With Team USA poised for greatness, the question isn’t just “Why not us?” but also, “Why not now?”