Country Roads: The Unofficial Anthem of the U.S. Team at the World Cup

The U.S. team has found an anthem in John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads” during this World Cup. Players and fans united in song after matches. Even coach Mauricio Pochettino, originally from Argentina, joined in following a 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina. He sang with his team and staff.

Bill Danoff, who co-wrote the song, feels honored that the U.S. team embraced it. Although Denver passed away in 1997, Danoff believes he would have enjoyed the recent match. Danoff shared, “It was a thrilling game, they played a man down but still won.” He admitted becoming more interested in soccer, partly due to the song’s connection. The John Denver estate appreciates the song’s revival, citing its enduring message and easy sing-along nature. They remarked how everyone understands the line, “Take me home to the place I belong,” not confined to West Virginia.

The song’s origin lies in Maryland. Despite celebrating West Virginia in its lyrics, Danoff revealed a drive through Maryland inspired it. He and Taffy Nivert were headed to a family reunion near the West Virginia border when the idea struck. Danoff hadn’t spent much time in West Virginia but listened to Appalachian music from WWVA radio in Wheeling. He was also inspired by West Virginia-born actor Chris Sarandon and West Virginian commune members visiting his performances.

Initially intended for Johnny Cash, the song found its voice with John Denver. After hearing an incomplete version, Denver convinced Danoff and Nivert to let him record it. Released in 1971, it became Denver’s biggest hit, lasting decades. Denver later reflected, “I’m grateful it touched others.”

“Country Roads” found its way onto FIFA’s postgame playlist, aimed at bonding the U.S. team and supporters. Debuting in the U.S. vs. Australia match, it quickly resonated with fans. Midfielder Weston McKennie noted, “You felt the connection.” Although it didn’t gain traction after the U.S. lost to Turkey, it roared back as the team advanced by defeating Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Fans, including McKennie and Sebastian Berhalter, embraced the song, swinging their arms as they sang to supporters. Even during non-U.S. matches, it played during hydration breaks, eliciting cheers rather than boos from fans.

“Country Roads” has been a sports staple beyond the World Cup. West Virginia University’s football games feature it, as fans sing after home victories. It also found a home in Europe, where NFL fans in Germany have sung it since their first game in Munich in 2022, and it’s a favorite during Oktoberfest. The English Premier League’s Manchester United supporters have adapted the lyrics for their home stadium, Old Trafford.

While the U.S. team embraced “Country Roads,” the England team adopted Oasis’ “Wonderwall.” After a 4-2 victory against Croatia, the English players sang it in unison, a tradition continuing after each match. Captain Harry Kane stated it as one of his top moments while wearing an England shirt.