FARGO — With a thrilling 1-0 win over Iran, the United States has clinched a spot in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 2014.
The improbable run by the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team has captivated and created soccer fans all across the country and here at home.
In Qatar, the U.S. team geared up for one of the most crucial matches in club history against Iran. More than 7,000 miles away, soccer fans were on the edge of their seat for every kick.
They call themselves the American Outlaws, and on Tuesday, Nov. 29, roughly 50 outlaws came together at Sickie's Garage in south Fargo to cheer on their favorite team.
"We're trying to spread the love, the spirit, the proudness of being an American, and then soccer on top of it," said Dilon Allen, chapter president of The American Outlaws-Fargo.
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The pitch-loving superfans are the body of the surprisingly large soccer fan base in North Dakota.
"It's great. It's growing. The FIFA World Cup really brings out new faces and old faces too. It's a great time to be around other soccer fans," Allen said. "For me, it's about U.S. soccer and winning."
The United States will take on the Netherlands in the first round of the knockout stage at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3.