USA-Portugal Draw Was Most-Watched World Cup Game In American History

Soccer’s popularity in the United States always has been questioned. After Sunday night’s 2014 FIFA World Cup game, however, the critics might be silenced for good.

Though the USA didn’t come away with a win over Portugal, fans still tuned in to enjoy the instant classic. Sports Illustrated’s Richard Deitsch provided the staggering viewership figures.

[tweet https://twitter.com/richarddeitsch/status/481146707758288896 align=’center’%5D

If that doesn’t silence the anti-soccer contingent in the U.S., another stat provided by Mr. Deitsch might.

[tweet https://twitter.com/richarddeitsch/status/481148808441892864 align=’center’]

After seeing those figures, it’s hard to argue that soccer doesn’t have a foothold among fans in the U.S. With the Americans in a win, tie or possibly go home situation with Germany on Thursday, it wouldn’t be surprising if the USA-Portugal viewership number is topped.

Thumbnail photo via Twitter/@washingtonpost