A recent study by Action Network has placed Delaware third on a list of the most soccer‑confused states in the United States, a ranking that reflects the surge of new fans trying to make sense of the sport ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
The tournament will run from June 11 through July 19 on U.S. soil, and the American side is slated to compete in Group D against Paraguay, Australia and Turkey, with a spot in the knockout round requiring a top‑two finish or a high enough third‑place result.
Demystifying Soccer Jargon
Terms such as "buildup," "technical" and "offside" are explained to help newcomers follow the action, while "dangerous" describes a lethal attacker who can change a game in an instant.
Lance Berry, a soccer analyst, recommends tuning into English and foreign commentary to pick up the nuances, and Megan Altig adds that even a "hospital ball" — a sloppy pass that could cause injury — is part of the learning curve.
North Dakota and Vermont outrank Delaware in confusion levels, underscoring that the learning curve is steep nationwide as the sport’s popularity expands.
The Road Ahead
Beyond terminology, the study highlights the growing infrastructure supporting soccer in the U.S., from university programs at institutions like the University of Vermont and Penn State to professional clubs such as Philadelphia Union, all of which are shaping the next generation of fans.