The 'American Outlaws': the group revolutionizing US Soccer fan culture

Thousands of supporters marched on the Wellington Regional Stadium before the game against the Netherlands in an epic display of support

It's 9AM in Wellington on Thursday morning. After breakfast and a few coffees (far too many have been consumed on this trip already), it's time to put on the five layers of clothing needed to keep the freezing Wellington temperatures at bay before heading out to work. It's a big day: the 2019 World Cup finalists the USA and Holland face off at Wellington Regional Stadium in what's likely to be the decisive game in group E. It's a cold morning and the strong wind- the city is renowned as being as one of the most dangerous places to land in due it's gusty nature- gnaws at the face as we make our way to the stadium. It's important to get there early as large numbers of journalists are expected, both Dutch, American and from other countries.

It's a half an hour walk from downtown Wellington to the 34,000-capacity stadium, that's located right on the port. It's peaceful and the walk is a nice way to clear your head before a long day. I find myself daydreaming and staring at the stunning mountains in the distance when suddenly my inner peace is interrupted.I can hear chants of 'USA, USA!' in the distance. Surely not… I must be hearing things- something very plausibe after spending two weeks with the American press and fans. Perhaps I've been brainwashed! Also, surely fans wouldn't be up this early even on the day of a game? As we continued to walk up the coastal path, the chants got louder: «USA, USA, USA»!

All of a sudden we stumbled upon hundreds and possibly even thousands of American fans… a huge group all packed together in what looked like a sea of red, white and blue. Despite the early