That youthful exuberance, speed and American never-say-die attitude weren’t enough for the U.S. World Cup team on Saturday morning. The plucky Americans were eliminated, 3-1, in the Round of 16 by a bigger, more experienced, patient, and clinical Netherlands team.
Team USA started the game strong, dominated possession from start to finish, outshot the Dutch 17-11 and had eight shots on goal. The Netherlands had just six shots on frame but converted half of them.
The first, a beautiful finish by Memphis Depay in the 10th minute. Then came the gut punch by Daley Blind just before the first half whistle; and then, just when it seemed the Americans had a fighting chance after a 76th-minute goal by Haji Wright, the door slammed shut with Denzel Dumfries’ 81st-minute blast.
