USMNT Falls to Netherlands at World Cup: Sports World Reacts

Fans and analysts gave their thoughts on what happened in Qatar Saturday morning.

Despite an opportunity to win a knockout round game for the first time since 2002, the USMNT couldn’t overcome a strong Netherlands squad that won its group. The Dutch used two first half goals and strong defensive play to propel them to a 3–1 victory, and they will play the winner of Argentina and Australia next.

With much of the country excited about the possibility of making a deep run in Qatar, this loss was a tough one to swallow. Yet, many fans are proud of the team’s entrance into the round of 16 in the first place after missing the tournament entirely in 2018.

Disappointing end to the #WorldCup. The marking defense was awful today. But overall a very positive tournament for USMNT. Young nucleus needed experience and big moments to build for ‘26. They got them.

— Damon Amendolara (@DamonAmendo) December 3, 2022

Game over. USA going home after 3-1 loss to experienced, patient, clinical Dutch team that is riding a 19-game win streak. Overall, lots for Americans to be proud of. Not good enough today. @HeraldSports @MiamiHerald #USMNT #WorldCup

— Michelle Kaufman (@kaufsports) December 3, 2022

Proud of the #USMNT . They absolutely put it all out on the line today . Tough result , but the future is super , super bright

— Dan Leach (@DanLeachDTM) December 3, 2022

Other fans and analysts, meanwhile, are wondering which areas the USMNT can improve upon to make a deeper run in 2026.

The "next level" is in the final 3rd. It's what you do with ball progression & creating quality chances once you get to the spots. All of this comes with repetitions at the highest levels. They have 3.5 years to get those repetitions to make sure in '26 they are ready. #USMNT

— Taylor Twellman (@TaylorTwellman) December 3, 2022

The growth the last couple years for @USMNT has been significant. But losing like this creates more clarity. We have a ways to go. Toyed with at times 🤷🏼‍♂️ by a better, more experienced team w superior finishers. Onward w lots of hope & optimism. 🇺🇸

— Colin Cowherd (@colincowherd) December 3, 2022

On one hand, the #USMNT did what they had to do: Get out of the group. But one wonders what could’ve been: Different roster/lineup choices, less conservative tactics, not squandering the must-have chances, more competent man-marking.

— Dan Hajducky (@DanHajducky) December 3, 2022

I think it’s pretty obvious what the USMNT need to improve upon to be considered a real contender for the World Cup. I think their youth will be an advantage but the next four years needs to focus on improving that front line and developing a striker. Their midfield is great.

— Randy Wilkins (@pamsson) December 3, 2022

Finally, with the 2026 World Cup coming to North America, everyone is excited about the hosting opportunity and in agreement that it will be a great experience after this showing.

The US, on a technical level, is better than they have ever been. There’s still a long way to go, and we need much more depth, but there is a lot to be excited about with this young group. The World Cup is 2026 in North America is going to be exciting.

— Clint Smith (@ClintSmithIII) December 3, 2022

Bring on 2026. Going to be a lot of pressure on the US to make a deep run at home. Should be quite fun.

— Dan Wolken (@DanWolken) December 3, 2022

The USMNT has 3.5 years to prepare for hosting the World Cup. For now, though, Americans will lament what could have been in this tournament.

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