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How 'Country Roads' became the soundtrack of the US team's World Cup run
By R.J. Rico, Associated Press at KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC)
· July 2, 2026
· 5 min read
It's become one of the enduring scenes of the U.S. team during this World Cup: jubilant U.S. players joining tens of thousands of fans in singing John Denver's “Take Me Home, Country Roads” at the end of their matches.Even coach Mauricio Pochettino, who was born in Argentina and lives in Spain, g...
Key takeaway Even coach Mauricio Pochettino, who was born in Argentina and lives in Spain, got in on the act after Wednesday's 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina, belting out the words to Denver's anthem as he hugged his players and staff members.
Why this matters in Magnolia News
The adoption of "Take Me Home, Country Roads" by the US team in the World Cup has a unique connection to the Houston area, where fans have been cheering on their team with enthusiasm. As the team's run in the tournament continues, local soccer enthusiasts in Magnolia and surrounding Montgomery County are likely to join in the singing of the iconic song. The fact that the song's cowriter, Bill Danoff, has become more of a soccer fan due to the team's embrace of "Country Roads" may inspire local residents to learn more about the sport and its growing popularity in the US. With the World Cup capturing the attention of fans nationwide, the Houston area is no exception, and the song's nostalgic and uplifting melody has become an integral part of the local fan experience. As the US team advances, Magnolia residents can expect to hear "Country Roads" ringing out at watch parties and gatherings throughout the community.
About this story
Original reporting by KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) . Magnolia News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 2, 2026 ·
Source: KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? It's become one of the enduring scenes of the U.S. team during this World Cup: jubilant U.S. players joining tens of thousands of fans in singing John Denver's “Take Me Home, Country Roads” at the end of their matches.Even coach Mauricio Pochettino, who was born in Argentina and lives in Spain, g...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 2, 2026 by KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) and curated for Magnolia News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by R.J. Rico, Associated Press at KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC). To learn more about how Magnolia News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from Magnolia News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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