New York Cosmos (1970–1985)

The New York Cosmos were a professional soccer team that played in the North American Soccer League (NASL) from 1971 to 1985. Founded in 1970, the Cosmos were instrumental in popularizing soccer in the United States during the 1970s and early 1980s. The team was based in New York City and played their home games in various stadiums, including Downing Stadium, Yankee Stadium, and Giants Stadium.

The Cosmos were known for attracting some of the biggest names in world soccer, including Pelé, Franz Beckenbauer, Giorgio Chinaglia, Carlos Alberto, and Johan Neeskens. These high-profile signings drew large crowds and media attention, helping to raise the profile of the NASL and soccer in general within the United States.

The team won five NASL championships (1972, 1977, 1978, 1980, and 1982) and were a dominant force in the league throughout their existence. The Cosmos' success helped to establish a base for future professional soccer leagues in the United States.

Following the collapse of the NASL in 1984, the Cosmos played in the Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL) for one season (1984-1985) before ceasing operations in 1985. The team's legacy continues to be felt in American soccer, with the Cosmos widely regarded as pioneers of the sport in the country. The name and brand have since been revived with a new New York Cosmos team that began play in the modern NASL in 2013.