The iconic moment when tens of thousands of fans sang John Denver's "Take Me Home, Country Roads" after the United States' victory over Australia was the result of a deliberate decision by FIFA Chief Business and Strategy Officer Amy Hopfinger, who personally overruled U.S. Soccer's preferred song selections.

Before the 2026 FIFA World Cup began, all participating nations were asked to submit songs for various in-stadium moments. The U.S. Men's National Team's (USMNT) initial choices included "WIN" by Jay Rock, "The Show Goes On" by Lupe Fiasco, "Livin’ on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi, and "Free Bird" by Lynyrd Skynyrd. Following the USMNT's opening 4-1 win against Paraguay, "WIN" was played, but Hopfinger felt a crucial element was missing.

"There wasn’t that shared moment," Hopfinger recalled in an interview with The Post. She observed similar unifying experiences at other matches, such as England's victory over Croatia, where Oasis's "Wonderwall" became a singalong anthem for players and supporters alike.

Seeking a similar unifying experience for the USMNT, Hopfinger consulted U.S. Soccer's communications staff, who suggested "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond. However, "Sweet Caroline" had also been submitted by England and the Netherlands, leading Hopfinger to desire a unique song for the United States.

"I only felt comfortable overruling the U.S.'s song selection because of my relationship with the team," Hopfinger stated. She then made the decision to use "Take Me Home, Country Roads."

The gamble proved successful. After the U.S. defeated Australia 2-0 on June 19, 2026, the crowd at Lumen Field erupted in song as the John Denver classic played. The scene quickly flooded social media, becoming a defining image of the tournament.

Hopfinger later told her former colleagues at U.S. Soccer, "I’m so glad I overruled you." She explained the goal was to play to the stadium's atmosphere and appeal to a broad audience, crediting FIFA's production team for their work.

Music has played a significant role throughout the World Cup, with various teams adopting anthems. Scotland fans have embraced Baccara's "Yes Sir, I Can Boogie," England continues with "Wonderwall," and Australia celebrates with Men at Work's "Down Under."

Hopfinger, who worked for U.S. Soccer for 17 years before joining FIFA in 2022, emphasized that her decision was part of her job managing event production. However, this particular choice, born from instinct and experience, has seemingly gifted American soccer a new World Cup anthem.