Record-Breaking Target USA Cup Returns To Blaine, Celebrates 40th Anniversary With Global Participation

Record-Breaking Target USA Cup Returns To Blaine, Celebrates 40th Anniversary With Global Participation

BLAINE, Minn. — The city of Blaine is once again set to become a global hub for youth soccer as the 2025 Target USA Cup kicks off July 11–19 at the National Sports Center (NSC). Celebrating its 40th anniversary, this year’s tournament will host a record-breaking 1,250+ teams representing 17 countries and 27 U.S. states, marking the largest field in the event’s history.

“We’re really excited,” said Sara Soli, spokesperson for the National Sports Center. “It’s our 40th Target USA Cup. We’re going to welcome more than 1,250 teams, including some historic firsts.”

For the first time, teams from Uruguay, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago will join the competition, making this year’s edition the most diverse yet. The inclusion of girls’ teams from Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago underscores the tournament’s emphasis on inclusivity and international representation.

More Than Soccer: A Celebration of Culture and Community

Far more than just a soccer tournament, the Target USA Cup is an immersive international experience. Alongside the thousands of athletes, over 525 referees from around the globe are arriving in Blaine to officiate matches on the NSC’s nearly 60 soccer fields, showcasing the tournament’s explosive growth from its humble beginnings.

Opening ceremonies, scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, are expected to draw thousands in a lively celebration of unity, diversity, and the global love for the game.

“There’ll be music, entertainment, and all those other things,” Soli said. “It’s the big culmination of everyone coming together and celebrating.”

The National Sports Center, one of the largest youth sports complexes in the world, provides the infrastructure for the weeklong tournament, complete with support from lead sponsor Target, which sets up interactive activities across campus. These offerings ensure engagement for everyone—from athletes to younger siblings and spectators alike.

Blaine: Minnesota’s Emerging Sports Capital

The USA Cup has helped shape Blaine’s identity as a sports and recreation powerhouse. The tournament—alongside the 3M Open PGA Tour event—positions Blaine as a premier destination for international athletics.

“The Target USA Cup is special, even more so than the 3M Open in terms of bringing the world to Blaine,” said Mayor Tim Sanders. “It’s one of my favorite slogans: ‘Where the world comes to play.’ With nearly 1,250 teams and close to 40 countries represented, this is truly a special event.”

“Blaine is really shaping up to be the sports capital of Minnesota,” Soli echoed. “The USA Cup is just one of those events that makes it so.”

A Legacy of Growth

What began four decades ago as a modest soccer gathering has evolved into one of the most recognized youth sports tournaments on the planet. With games played on nearly 60 fields and thousands of families converging on the North Metro area, the Target USA Cup not only showcases soccer talent but also promotes global connection, sportsmanship, and cultural exchange.

“Soccer is a safe space. We want this to be a celebration of the sport and of the world,” Soli said. “We welcome everyone.”

As teams from across the world take the pitch in Blaine, the 2025 Target USA Cup stands as a testament to the power of sport to unite communities—and continents—through competition and camaraderie.

MinneapoliMedia