But that’s the only way I know how to describe the United States’ effort in this World Cup. This was a team that was at a statistical, logistical, historical and infrastructural disadvantage, but one that managed to overachieve and win the hearts of soccer fans the world over in the process.
This team was something American sports fans should be proud of. The American identity – in soccer terms, at least – has always been a hard-working, unrelenting, resolute spirit that translates to stoic defensive performances, set-piece goals and ?incisive counterattacks.
Tim Howard will be named in the ?pantheon of American sports legends for decades – and for good reason. The goalkeeper, who plies his trade for Everton Football Club in England, put in one of the all-time great performances in World Cup history.
Much of the goodwill American soccer garnered from international fans during the World Cup is due not just to the team, but also to the impressive and unwavering support from the American fans, who possibly numbered in excess of 100,000 all told. The now-famous “Teddy Goalsevelt” was just one of many loyal USMNT fans who spent two weeks and thousands of dollars to support their team. Many reports have international media and fans impressed with the knowledge and passion of the American supporters. To many in Europe and the world over, the USMNT’s time as a world soccer minnow might be over.
So where does the U.S. go from here?
I wrote before the Cup that this team gave me hope. Howard and Michael Bradley and Jozy Altidore and Clint Dempsey all inspired confidence in me. As I assess the U.S. Soccer scene for the next World Cup cycle, I find more reason to be hopeful.
Julian Green, who scored late against Belgium with one of the most technically proficient finishes in the tournament, will be coming into his own in 2018, likely while playing his club soccer with Bayern Munich. Accompanying him on the frontline could be Altidore in the autumn of his career or Aron Johannsonn, the most natural forward the U.S. has had in some time, in his prime. Add Gedion Zelalem, a prospect in Arsenal’s youth ranks and Deandre Yedlin, a revelation in this World Cup, and the USMNT could find its stock rising in time for Russia 2018.
