On ESPN’s coverage of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, few commentators have inspired more conversation than Alexi Lalas. Known for his expressive commentary alongside Bob Ley in the ESPN studio, Alexi Lalas first distinguished himself as a defender on the United States Men’s National Team in the 1990s. During the early years of his career, he played with Italian Serie A club Padova, where he led the team’s defensive efforts and claimed three goals off set pieces.

2. On ESPN’s coverage of the 2014 FIFA World
Cup in Brazil, few commentators have inspired
more conversation than Alexi Lalas. Known for
his expressive commentary alongside Bob Ley
in the ESPN studio, Alexi Lalas first
distinguished himself as a defender on the
United States Men’s National Team in the
1990s. During the early years of his career, he
played with Italian Serie A club Padova, where
he led the team’s defensive efforts and claimed
three goals off set pieces.

3. Lalas rose to fame during the 1994 FIFA World
Cup, which took place in the United States. He
started all four games for the American squad,
which advanced from the group stage and lost a
tough match 1-0 to Brazil in the Round of 16.
Lalas played an integral role in the U.S.
defense, earning honorable mention as an All-
Star of the tournament. He also became known
for his distinctive appearance, which included
long red hair and a beard.