New york cosmos
The New York Cosmos! A legendary soccer team that played in the North American Soccer League (NASL) from 1971 to 1985. Here's a brief overview:
History: The Cosmos were founded in 1971 by Warner Communications, a media conglomerate, with the goal of bringing professional soccer to the United States. The team was named after the popular TV show "Cosmos: A Personal Voyage," hosted by Carl Sagan.
Success: The Cosmos were incredibly successful during their time in the NASL. They won five league championships (1972, 1977, 1978, 1980, and 1982) and three U.S. Open Cups (1977, 1983, and 1984). They also won the CONCACAF Champions' Cup in 1977.
Star Power: The Cosmos were known for their star-studded roster, which included some of the greatest players in the world at the time. Some notable players include:
- Pelé (Brazil): Regarded by many as the greatest soccer player of all time, Pelé played for the Cosmos from 1975 to 1977.
- Franz Beckenbauer (Germany): A legendary defender and midfielder, Beckenbauer played for the Cosmos from 1977 to 1980.
- Giorgio Chinaglia (Italy): A prolific striker, Chinaglia played for the Cosmos from 1976 to 1983 and holds the team's all-time scoring record.
- Johan Cruyff (Netherlands): A Dutch football legend, Cruyff played for the Cosmos in 1977.
Impact: The Cosmos played a significant role in popularizing soccer in the United States. They helped to increase interest in the sport, attract new fans, and pave the way for future professional soccer leagues.
Legacy: Although the Cosmos ceased operations in 1985, their legacy continues to be felt in the world of American soccer. The team's success and popularity helped to lay the groundwork for the modern professional soccer leagues in the United States, including Major League Soccer (MLS).
In 2010, the Cosmos returned to professional soccer, this time in the second-tier North American Soccer League (NASL). They have since become a successful franchise, winning the NASL championship in 2013 and 2015.