There was drama (extra time). There was fantastic performances (Tim Howard). There were audacious debuts (Julian Green). But at the end of 120 minutes, the U.S. fell 2-1 to Belgium in the knockout round of the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
The Americans showed pluck and verve in the match with goalkeeper Howard making 16 saves in an absolutely heroic performance while Green, in his first World Cup action, did this with his first touch:
While the loss was heartbreaking, interest in soccer across the Rose City and the country continues to soar. No need to go through withdrawal as what could be more American than supporting your Timbers and Thorns FC this July 4 when the Timbers play the Galaxy in LA (8pm PT, NBCSN) and the Thorns host Chicago Red Stars (11am PT, Webstream).