McKennie was once a young fan inspired by meeting U.S. World Cup stars. Now, after a defining match, he’s returned the favor to a bold kid with big plans.
DOHA, Qatar – Luka Lizardo couldn’t wait. It was Tuesday afternoon, only a few hours before the United States would play Iran for a spot in the World Cup’s knockout stage, and he had fallen squarely into are-we-there-yet mode. So he did what he always does. He dribbled a soccer ball, spinning and twirling and whirling, like a puppeteer who only needed feet.
When Luka grew bored of the usual routine, he made a prediction to his father, Axel.