USMNT or El Tri? How bicultural kids pick their team

In households across the United States, game days often come with a friendly – or not so friendly – debate: who do we support, USA or Mexico?

For first- and second-generation families, the choice isn't simple. Parents may feel a deep emotional bond with El Tri, while kids feel proud to cheer for the country where they were born.

"My dad always wears his green Mexico jersey," says Ana, a 17-year-old from California. "But my little brother loves Pulisic and the USMNT, so our living room gets loud."

Social media has amplified these conversations. Young fans openly discuss what it means to be Latino in the US, mixing flags and emojis in the same profile.

The good news? Many of them don't feel forced to choose only one side. They celebrate goals from both teams and see their dual fandom as a reflection of their dual identity.