In this episode of More Than Just A Score, we revisit the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the United States — a tournament that changed the future of soccer in North America.

USA 94 was FIFA’s great gamble: huge stadiums, massive commercial potential, and a host nation still learning to love the game. We explore the host selection, stadium choices, qualification drama, controversies, and legacy of the tournament.

From Maradona’s failed drug test to Andres Escobar’s tragic death, from Nigeria’s rise to Bulgaria’s miracle run, from Roberto Baggio’s brilliance and heartbreak to Brazil’s emotional fourth World Cup title, this is the story of a tournament that still shapes the game today.

Credit: FIFA, BBC Sport Archive, The Guardian, ESPN FC, CNN