Man United Overshadows Club World Cup! U.S. Sets Attendance Record in Friendly Against West Ham
Manchester United’s 2-1 triumph over West Ham at MetLife Stadium broke a new U.S. soccer crowd record with 82,566 spectators. Bruno Fernandes netted both goals.
Manchester United’s 2–1 win against West Ham United at MetLife Stadium on Saturday was more than just a display of pre-season Premier League action—it marked a landmark moment in U.S. soccer history.
An astounding 82,566 supporters filled the stadium, establishing a fresh record for the highest turnout at a soccer game in the United States in 2025.
This figure surpassed the previous record set earlier this year during the FIFA Club World Cup final, which saw an audience of 81,118 fans.
The match, part of United’s summer tour of the U.S., turned MetLife Stadium—home turf for the NFL’s New York Giants and Jets—into a wave of red and claret as fans turned up in massive numbers.
On the pitch, Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes was the standout, scoring both goals in the match. The 30-year-old Portuguese playmaker showed class and control, reaffirming why he was named United’s Player of the Season last year.
The game remained competitive, with West Ham finding the net in the second half, but United maintained the lead. The quality of football and the electric vibe in the stands made it a memorable evening for everyone present.
Rising Popularity of European Football in America
Saturday’s record-breaking attendance highlights the growing enthusiasm for European club football among U.S. fans. With top-tier teams such as Manchester United, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Arsenal frequently adding U.S. stops to their summer schedules, audience participation has increased rapidly.
Tournaments like the Club World Cup—hosted in the U.S. for the first time this year—and the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, are fueling a major soccer resurgence in North America. MetLife Stadium, a confirmed venue for 2026 World Cup games, continues to affirm its status as a premier destination for major football events.
After this historic turnout, Manchester United will proceed with their U.S. tour, with more matches scheduled on the West Coast.
