For the first time in 8 years, The United States Men’s soccer team secured a spot in the 2022 FIFA World Cup Knockout Stage with their 1-0 win over Iran on Tuesday. The United States will face off against the Netherlands on Saturday, December 3rd.

The US played an exciting game against Iran this past Tuesday, with Christian Pulisic scoring on a cross from Sergiño Dest in the 38th minute of the game. Although Pulisic scored a fantastic goal, he ran into the Iranian goalkeeper, Alireza Beiranvand, who accidentally “kneed” Pulisic in the abdominal area. This caused Pulisic to be subbed off, being out for the rest of the match. Pulisic was transferred to a hospital but he seems to be alright.

If you watched this match between these two World Cup underdogs, you would’ve seen teams that never wanted to give up. Both US and Iran knew what was at stake. They would’ve secured a knockout stage spot if Iran won, with England still topping Group B. With England winning the Group, they will face off against Senegal, the runner-up of Group A.

Now, a forward look to Saturday’s game.

The Netherlands is a powerful team with big names like Virgil Van Dijk and Frenkie De Jong leading the way. They finished the group stage with 2 wins and a draw against Ecuador. The Netherlands has never been eliminated in the group stage in World Cup history and has been the runners-up in 3 previous World Cups. With all this being said, the Netherlands is a heavy favorite against the US. But don’t lose hope fellow Americans! The US kept it close with England all game, who is one of the best teams in this World Cup.

Many different things could happen in the match against the Netherlands. If the US wants to win, it must utilize its speed and ability to keep the pace going. The fast tempo kept the US in all of their matches in the Group Stage, so it is key they continue in the Knockout Stage.

If the US beats the Netherlands, then they’ll face the winner of the match between Argentina and Australia. Could we see a match between two countries that call the game “soccer?” or will Messi and his squad dominate their mates down under?

It’s an exciting World Cup so far, and I hope the US can continue its run.

USA! USA! USA!