‘Better and better’: World Cup could grow SC’s soccer successes

South Carolina is home to nation's oldest professional soccer club, a four-time college championship team, and the NCAA's best-attended soccer games.

By: Pete Iacobelli

Outlets: South Carolina Daily Gazette

Published: July 10, 2026

Words: 1,133

Last Updated: 1 week, 5 days ago

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COLUMBIA — Tables were filled at a restaurant in South Carolina’s capital as excited American fans, wearing USA hats and shirts, filed in to watch the country’s latest try at ensuring a more permanent fixture for soccer.

The United States men’s team had won its World Cup group and advanced into the round of 16. It faced its biggest test of the tournament Monday against European power Belgian, and it was a can’t-miss event for …

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