The USMNT is flying high as Group D winners, with their first two games making history. The nation is filled with patriotism and ready to ride this wave all the way to the World Cup Final. However, the road just got a little tougher after Belgium’s big win on Friday.
Knockout Stage Ahead
The USA opens the knockout stage on July 1 in Santa Clara, California, against Bosnia and Herzegovina, a third-place finisher from Group B. This is a favorable match-up to kick things off in the win-or-go-home stage.
In the Round of 16, the U.S. would likely face Belgium on July 6 in Seattle. Belgium won Group G and is ranked ninth in the FIFA/Coca-Cola Men’s World Ranking. Their exact Round of 32 opponent is still unknown and could include teams like South Korea, Senegal, Algeria, or Austria.
A potential USMNT run to the quarterfinals could mean a match against Spain and superstar Lamine Yamal, the Group H winners. The quarterfinal path is shaping up to be extremely difficult for the United States, with potential opponents including European or South American heavyweights like Spain, Colombia, or Portugal.
If the USMNT reaches the semifinals, they would need to win three straight knockout matches, likely involving multiple elite national teams. The semifinal would be played on July 14 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, with potential opponents including France, Germany, the Netherlands, or other strong teams.
A USMNT appearance in the World Cup Final would be a historic moment, but the path on the other side of the bracket is stacked with traditional powers like Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
