It’s true: soccer in the U.S. has been growing steadily over the past two decades, and today it’s more popular—and more organized—than ever. Here’s how the USL and MLS fit into that picture.
MLS: MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER
Think of MLS (Major League Soccer) as the top-tier professional men’s soccer league in the United States and Canada. It’s basically the equivalent of the Premier League in England or La Liga in Spain—though it’s not quite at that level yet in terms of global star power or competition.
KEY POINTS ABOUT MLS:
Founded in 1996, a few years after the 1994 World Cup was hosted in the U.S.
Top Division: It’s considered Division I in the U.S. soccer pyramid.
Number of Teams: As of 2025, MLS has 29 teams—26 in the U.S. and 3 in Canada.
Season Format: Runs from late February to early December, with a regular season followed by playoffs, ending in the MLS Cup.
Player Development: MLS clubs often have youth academies and reserve teams in lower divisions to help develop talent.
No Promotion/Relegation: Unlike many other countries, MLS doesn’t have promotion or relegation. Teams don’t move between divisions based on performance.
MLS AND WOMEN’S SOCCER:
There is no women’s version of MLS. The top women’s league is called the NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League), which is totally separate but plays a similar role for women’s soccer as MLS does for men.
USL: UNITED SOCCER LEAGUE
Now, USL is a bit more layered, but it’s basically the organization that runs several lower-tier leagues, both professional and semi-professional, for men and women.
FOR MEN:
USL Championship: This is the second tier, right below MLS. It’s fully professional and quite competitive, with many teams drawing decent crowds. Some cities don’t have an MLS team but do have a strong USL team.
USL League One: This is third tier. Still professional, but usually smaller cities and clubs with lower budgets.
USL League Two: This is fourth tier and is semi-professional or amateur. Think college players trying to stay sharp in the summer or young talent looking to break into the pro scene.
FOR WOMEN:
USL Super League: This is a new professional women’s league launching in August 2025, aiming to compete at the top level, even with the NWSL. It’s USL’s first big step into top-tier women’s pro soccer.
USL W League: This is an amateur/pre-professional women’s league, similar to USL League Two for men. It gives college athletes and young players competitive experience during the offseason.
HOW THEY RELATE
MLS and USL are separate entities, with no promotion/relegation between them. That said, many MLS clubs have reserve teams that used to play in the USL, but now most play in MLS Next Pro, a new third-division league that’s specifically for MLS reserve sides.
USL is more open to community-based and independent teams, while MLS is franchise-based and more centralized.
NWSL vs. USL Super League: The NWSL is still the top league for women as of now, but the USL Super League aims to rival it, especially since it plans to operate on a European-style fall-to-spring calendar, unlike the NWSL.
MLS: Top men’s league in U.S./Canada. No women’s equivalent.
NWSL: Top women’s league. Separate from MLS.
USL: Organizes multiple lower leagues:
USL Championship (men’s D2)
USL League One (men’s D3)
USL League Two (men’s amateur)
USL Super League (new women’s pro league, launching 2025)
USL W League (women’s amateur/pre-pro)
If you’re getting into soccer in the U.S. now, it’s honestly a great time. The 2026 Men’s World Cup is being co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, and momentum is really building across both the men’s and women’s sides of the sport.
Bottom of Form
HERE’S A GUIDE TO THE TEAMS AND CITIES FOR MLS, USL CHAMPIONSHIP, NWSL, AND A PREVIEW OF THE UPCOMING USL SUPER LEAGUE. THIS WILL GIVE YOU A SENSE OF HOW WIDESPREAD SOCCER HAS BECOME ACROSS THE U.S.
MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER (MLS)
DIVISION I – MEN’S TOP LEAGUE
Team City/Region Atlanta United FC Atlanta, GA Austin FC Austin, TX CF Montréal Montréal, QC (Canada) Charlotte FC Charlotte, NC Chicago Fire FC Chicago, IL FC Cincinnati Cincinnati, OH Colorado Rapids Commerce City, CO (Denver area) Columbus Crew Columbus, OH D.C. United Washington, D.C. FC Dallas Frisco, TX (Dallas area) Houston Dynamo FC Houston, TX Inter Miami CF Fort Lauderdale, FL (Miami area) LA Galaxy Carson, CA (Los Angeles area) Los Angeles FC Los Angeles, CA Minnesota United FC St. Paul, MN Nashville SC Nashville, TN New England Revolution Foxborough, MA (Boston area) New York City FC New York, NY (plays in the Bronx) New York Red Bulls Harrison, NJ (NY metro area) Orlando City SC Orlando, FL Philadelphia Union Chester, PA (Philadelphia area) Portland Timbers Portland, OR Real Salt Lake Sandy, UT (Salt Lake City area) San Jose Earthquakes San Jose, CA Seattle Sounders FC Seattle, WA Sporting Kansas City Kansas City, KS/MO St. Louis City SC St. Louis, MO Toronto FC Toronto, ON (Canada) Vancouver Whitecaps FC Vancouver, BC (Canada)
USL CHAMPIONSHIP
DIVISION II – MEN’S SECOND TIER
Team City/Region Birmingham Legion FC Birmingham, AL Charleston Battery Charleston, SC Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC Colorado Springs, CO Detroit City FC Detroit, MI El Paso Locomotive FC El Paso, TX Hartford Athletic Hartford, CT Indy Eleven Indianapolis, IN Las Vegas Lights FC Las Vegas, NV Loudoun United FC Leesburg, VA (DC area) Louisville City FC Louisville, KY Memphis 901 FC Memphis, TN Miami FC Miami, FL Monterey Bay FC Seaside, CA (Monterey) New Mexico United Albuquerque, NM North Carolina FC Cary, NC Oakland Roots SC Oakland, CA Orange County SC Irvine, CA Phoenix Rising FC Phoenix, AZ Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC Pittsburgh, PA Rhode Island FC (joining 2025) Pawtucket, RI Sacramento Republic FC Sacramento, CA San Antonio FC San Antonio, TX Tampa Bay Rowdies St. Petersburg, FL Tulsa FC Tulsa, OK
NATIONAL WOMEN’S SOCCER LEAGUE (NWSL)
DIVISION I – WOMEN’S TOP LEAGUE
Team City/Region Angel City FC Los Angeles, CA Bay FC San Jose, CA Chicago Red Stars Chicago, IL Houston Dash Houston, TX Kansas City Current Kansas City, MO NJ/NY Gotham FC Harrison, NJ (NYC metro) North Carolina Courage Cary, NC OL Reign Seattle, WA Orlando Pride Orlando, FL Portland Thorns FC Portland, OR Racing Louisville FC Louisville, KY San Diego Wave FC San Diego, CA Utah Royals FC Sandy, UT (Salt Lake City area) Washington Spirit Washington, D.C.
USL SUPER LEAGUE
WOMEN’S PROFESSIONAL LEAGUE – LAUNCHING FALL 2025
These are the initial clubs announced so far for the Super League:
Team City/Region Charlotte (Carolina Ascent FC) Charlotte, NC Dallas/Fort Worth area Texas (exact team name TBA) Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, FL Lexington SC Lexington, KY Phoenix Rising SC (women’s side) Phoenix, AZ Spokane Zephyr FC Spokane, WA Tampa Bay Sun FC Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL Chattanooga Chattanooga, TN Washington DC area Team TBA Indianapolis Indy Eleven Women Additional cities expected More to be announced
Extra Notes:
Many MLS and NWSL teams share facilities or ownership, like Houston Dynamo & Dash or Portland Timbers & Thorns.
Youth and reserve teams often play in MLS Next Pro (for MLS clubs) or USL League Two/W League (for USL clubs).
Some cities have both men’s and women’s teams, while others are still growing toward that.
If you’re in or near any of these cities, going to a game—especially MLS or USL—is a great way to enjoy the atmosphere. Soccer fans in the U.S. are passionate, and many games now sell out or bring in big, energetic crowds.
Men’s and women’s soccer in the U.S. has grown massively over the past 10–15 years, and that growth is still accelerating.
Here’s a quick rundown of why and how it’s happening:
FOR MEN’S SOCCER
MLS expansion: When MLS started in 1996, it had just 10 teams. Now it has nearly 30, with more expansion likely.
Stadiums and fan culture: Many teams have soccer-specific stadiums and growing local fan bases. Cities like Atlanta, St. Louis, Seattle, Portland, and Cincinnati have developed really intense soccer cultures.
Youth development: MLS clubs now operate full youth academies and second teams in MLS Next Pro, creating a stronger pipeline of homegrown players.
U.S. Men’s National Team: A new generation of U.S. players like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Tyler Adams are playing in Europe and helping boost interest at home.
FOR WOMEN’S SOCCER
NWSL stability and growth: After years of failed leagues, the NWSL has now lasted over a decade and continues to add new teams and sponsorships.
Success of U.S. Women’s National Team: Four World Cup wins and high visibility have made players like Megan Rapinoe, Alex Morgan, and Rose Lavelle household names.
Emerging rival league (USL Super League): Launching in 2025, it shows that demand is high enough to support multiple professional women’s leagues—a major milestone.
Youth and college pathways: The U.S. has long had the strongest women’s youth and college system in the world, which now feeds both the NWSL and Super League.
WHY THE GROWTH?
Demographic shifts: More young people in the U.S. are growing up playing and watching soccer.
Immigration and global culture: Soccer is already huge globally. Immigrant communities have helped bring that love of the sport here.
TV & streaming: You can now easily watch global soccer (like the Premier League or UEFA Champions League) along with MLS and NWSL on major platforms.
2026 World Cup: With the Men’s World Cup coming to North America in 2026 (co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico), interest is already building.
Both men’s and women’s soccer in the U.S. are no longer fringe sports. They’re quickly becoming central parts of American sports culture. And a lot of fans are proud to be early supporters of something that’s still growing but already exciting.
HERE’S A SIMPLE, PRACTICAL GUIDE TO SOCCER RULES, POSITIONS, AND HOW TO TALK SOCCER WITH OTHERS—ESPECIALLY HELPFUL IF YOU’RE JUST GETTING INTO THE SPORT AND WANT TO SOUND LIKE YOU KNOW WHAT YOU’RE TALKING ABOUT, WHETHER AT A GAME OR IN CONVERSATION.
THE BASIC RULES OF SOCCER (AKA FOOTBALL OUTSIDE THE U.S.)
OBJECTIVE
Two teams compete to score goals by getting the ball into the other team’s net. Most goals wins.
MATCH LENGTH
90 minutes total, split into two 45-minute halves
A short halftime break (~15 minutes)
Stoppage time added at the end of each half to make up for injuries or delays
PLAYERS
11 players per side (including the goalkeeper)
Teams can make a set number of substitutions (usually 5 in most leagues)
KEY RULES
No hands (except goalkeepers inside their own box)
Offside: An attacking player can’t be past the last defender when a pass is played forward (this rule confuses many at first but becomes easier to understand over time)
Fouls: Players can’t trip, push, or recklessly tackle others
Yellow card = warning; Red card = ejection from game
Free kicks, penalty kicks, and corner kicks are awarded depending on where fouls or the ball go out
POSITIONS AND WHAT THEY DO
Soccer positions fall into four broad roles:
GOALKEEPER (GK)
Wears a different color jersey
Only player allowed to use hands—but only inside their penalty box
Protects the goal and directs the defense
DEFENDERS
Center Backs (CB): Stay near the goal to block attacks
Full Backs (LB/RB): Play wide, block wingers, support offense on the sides
Wing Backs (LWB/RWB): Like full backs but even more involved in attacking
Sweeper (rare today): An older position that “cleans up” behind other defenders
MIDFIELDERS
Central Midfielder (CM): Controls the game, passes, sets pace
Defensive Midfielder (CDM): Shields the defense, wins the ball back
Attacking Midfielder (CAM): Creates chances, feeds the forwards
Wingers (LM/RM or LW/RW): Fast players on the sides who cross and cut in
FORWARDS/STRIKERS
Striker (ST): The main goal-scorer
Center Forward (CF): Similar to striker, often bigger/stronger
Second Striker (SS): Plays slightly behind the striker, links midfield to attack
COMMON SOCCER TERMS YOU’LL HEAR (AND USE)
Here are some easy phrases and lingo to sprinkle into your conversations:
Term What It Means “Pitch” The soccer field “Clean sheet” When a team allows zero goals “Brace” When a player scores 2 goals in a game “Hat trick” When a player scores 3 goals “Set piece” Any dead-ball restart, like a corner or free kick “Counterattack” A quick attack right after winning the ball “High press” Defenders push up and pressure the opponent high up the field “Man-marking” Defenders stick to a specific player “Through ball” A pass that slices through the defense to set up a goal chance “Cross” A ball kicked from the wing across the goal area “Formations” 4-4-2, 4-3-3, 3-5-2, etc.—describe how players are arranged on the field
HOW TO TALK SOCCER WITH OTHERS (AND SOUND LIKE YOU KNOW THE GAME)
Here’s how to hold your own in casual conversation with fans:
Ask about players or clubs: “Do you follow the U.S. men’s or women’s national teams?” or “Who’s your MLS team?”
Comment on tactics: “They’re playing a really high press today,” or “The midfield is controlling the game.”
Recognize skill: “That first touch was world-class,” or “Their striker’s movement off the ball is impressive.”
Show passion or curiosity: “I’m just getting into soccer—what’s your favorite team or match you’ve been to?”
You can also say things like:
“They’ve really tightened up the defense since halftime.”
“They need more width in attack.”
“I love how fluid their formation is.”
And don’t worry—nobody expects you to be an expert right away. Soccer fans are typically happy someone else is into the sport and asking good questions.
Getting into soccer in the U.S. right now is like stepping into something that’s both fresh and full of rich potential. Whether you’re watching Major League Soccer (MLS), the USL leagues, or diving into the rising wave of women’s professional soccer through the NWSL or the upcoming USL Super League, there’s something for everyone.
The teams are rooted in cities all across the country, the fan culture is becoming more electric, and the matches are exciting, fast-paced, and full of storylines to follow.
What makes this even more unique is that soccer in the U.S. is still growing and evolving. That means fans like you aren’t joining late—you’re actually part of the movement helping to shape it.
There’s something special about being involved in a sport while it’s expanding, while new clubs are forming, and while fans are creating their own traditions, chants, and communities around the game.
Whether you follow a local team, a national one, or simply cheer on the U.S. men’s or women’s national teams in international competitions, you’re joining something that’s bigger than just a game.
It’s also a sport that’s universal. From youth fields in small towns to stadiums in big cities, soccer has a way of connecting people, crossing cultural lines, and bringing fans together from all walks of life.
And with the 2026 FIFA World Cup coming to U.S. soil, you can expect even more energy, media attention, and enthusiasm building toward a future where soccer holds a much larger place in American sports culture.
So whether you’re looking to become a regular at local matches, talk the talk with friends, or simply enjoy the thrill of a well-played match, you’re in a great position. Soccer in the U.S. is no longer on the fringe—it’s rising fast. And there’s never been a better time to be a part of it.
YOU CAN FIND EXCELLENT, RELIABLE INFORMATION ABOUT MLS, USL, NWSL, AND THE GROWTH OF SOCCER IN THE U.S. FROM A MIX OF OFFICIAL WEBSITES, NEWS SOURCES, AND FAN COMMUNITIES. HERE’S A GUIDE TO WHERE YOU CAN DIG DEEPER BASED ON WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:
Official League Websites
These are the best starting points for accurate, up-to-date team info, schedules, standings, and news.
- MLS (Major League Soccer)
https://www.mlssoccer.com - USL (United Soccer League) – includes Championship, League One, League Two, Super League, and W League
https://www.uslsoccer.com
https://www.uslsuperleague.com (for the women’s pro league launching in 2025) - NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League)
https://www.nwslsoccer.com - MLS Next Pro (for reserve/youth development teams under MLS)
https://www.mlsnextpro.com
News & Soccer Media Sites
These sites cover news, analysis, transfers, fan culture, and global soccer as well:
- ESPN Soccer – https://www.espn.com/soccer/
- The Athletic (Soccer section) – https://theathletic.com/soccer (subscription)
- Goal.com (U.S. Edition) – https://www.goal.com/en-us
- Soccer America – https://www.socceramerica.com
- MLSSoccer.com’s Extratime podcast – great for commentary and insights
Fan & Community Resources
These are more interactive and great for casual fans looking to learn from others:
- Reddit soccer communities:
- YouTube Channels (searchable by team or league):
- MLS and NWSL both have official YouTube channels
- Team channels often post match highlights, interviews, and training content
- Social Media:
- Twitter/X and Instagram are great for following individual teams, players, and leagues
- Look up local fan supporter groups (they often organize watch parties and events)
World Cup and U.S. National Teams
If you want to follow the U.S. Men’s and Women’s National Teams: