Drama in the U.S. Soccer sphere wouldn’t be complete without former player and pundit Alexi Lalas chiming in to give his opinion. Lalas has responded to USWNT captain Lindsey Horan’s quote about American soccer fans not being smart.
Horan’s chief complaint with American soccer fans was when they only listen to what the U.S. pundits and commentators say and accept that as the truth.
“American soccer fans, most of them aren’t smart,” Horan said in an interview with the Athletic. “They don’t know the game. They don’t understand. (But) it’s getting better and better.
“I’m gonna piss some people off… but the game is growing in the U.S. People are more and more knowledgeable, but so much of the time people listen to what the commentators say right? My mom does it!”
One of those commentators has now responded with Lalas taking a shot at the USWNT captain’s “low opinion.”
Lalas responds to Horan
So, not satisfied with already turning off many Americans who don’t watch soccer, evidently the #USWNT has now set their sights on turning off many Americans who do watch soccer. Bold strategy. https://t.co/oBHEDTglj4
— Alexi Lalas (@AlexiLalas) February 2, 2024
Lots to like. I like Lindsey Horan, as player/person. I just disagree with her low opinion of American soccer fans. But even if she truly believes what she’s saying, seems like a strange and needless shot to take at a time when the #USWNT is desperate to rehabilitate its image. https://t.co/uA6TVhu5hF
— Alexi Lalas (@AlexiLalas) February 2, 2024
I actually think American soccer fans are arguably some of the most educated, interesting, and well-rounded in the game. In a country where soccer isn't king, American soccer fans have often had to seek and discover the game, domestically and internationally. This proactive…
— Alexi Lalas (@AlexiLalas) February 2, 2024
Horan, who plays her club ball with Lyon in France, said that the French people know the sport and have a better understanding of the style of play.
Lalas believes that U.S. fans watching many different styles and leagues makes Americans even more knowledgeable.
The debate has actually generated a lot of conversation amongst the fanbase as opinions vary on the soccer intelligence of American fans.