USMNT goalkeeper Matt Turner’s idyllic hometown that fueled an improbable World Cup dream

To better understand the U.S. men’s national team before it begins the World Cup in Qatar, The Athletic traveled to the hometowns of several of its most important figures. We found a squad shaped not only by American society, but also influenced by traditions from every corner of the globe.

Taken together, their stories provide a glimpse into a growing, increasingly vibrant American soccer culture that will be on . . .