Gregg Berhalter sets USMNT World Cup success benchmark
Gregg Berhalter believes a trip to the World Cup quarterfinals would be a huge achievement for the USMNT and a milestone moment for American soccer.
The beauty of the World Cup is the introduction and blending of different cultures. Algeria’s national team is feeling the love in the Sunflower State during the world’s biggest tournament.
Algeria’s base camp is set in Lawrence, Kansas, 30 minutes west of Kansas City. The college town, which houses the University of Kansas, has been a fantastic host for the world’s 28th-ranked team.
Algeria hosted a training session at KU’s Rock Chalk Park, a soccer-specific stadium, on Thursday, June 11. A few thousand people attended the open practice where KU’s band played the Algerian national anthem before the team took to the pitch.
In a social media post, Algeria star Riyad Mahrez thanked KU’s band for welcoming the team.
Prior to training, Algeria toured KU’s facilities, including Allen Fieldhouse, the famed college basketball arena. Mahrez also drilled field goals on the Jayhawks’ recently renovated David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, which is estimated to cost nearly $448 million.
A few days earlier, fans from Algeria and Lawrence welcomed Les Fennecs to their hotel. The videos from the team’s hotel have gone viral, with local Lawrencians stating their support for the African nation.
When does Algeria play its first World Cup match?
Algeria opens its World Cup against defending champion Argentina on Tuesday, June 16.
Algeria will head to the eastern portion of Kansas City to face the Albiceleste in Group J at 9 p.m. ET.
As Lawrence has welcomed Algeria, the world is being introduced to the hospitality and kindness of the Midwest. All Algeria can do now is to put together a strong performance for its nation and its newly adopted American city.
