USMNT Players Blamed for World Cup Failure

The United States Men’s National Team saw its World Cup hopes come crashing down in a blowout 4-1 loss to Belgium.

Team USA entered the game as the favorite after a strong showing in group stage play and a 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina in the Round of 32. Going up against a Belgium side that looked like it was waiting to be knocked out of the tournament, the United States couldn’t muster much offensively.

The ultimate blame normally falls on the manager, but ESPN’s Ryan O’Hanlon placed the blame squarely on the shoulders of the 11 players on the field.

More soccer: How Team USA Learned of Folarin Balogun's Suspension Change

More soccer: Reporter Apologizes for What She Said Before USA vs Bosnia-Herzegovina

“The U.S. had 12 touches in the opposition box, compared to the 22 touches it allowed. Despite trailing for most of the game, the U.S. attempted only seven total shots. Their first shot from open play came in the 79th minute, from Sebastian Berhalter,” he said plainly.

“This wasn’t a game where the ball bounced the wrong way a bunch of times. The U.S. simply got wrecked.”

It’s difficult to argue with his point. The United States seemed to be lacking confidence and didn’t play as aggressively as it did against inferior opponents earlier in the tournament.

As a result, the team is headed home while Belgium faces off against Spain in the quarterfinals.

More soccer: England Player Hospitalized With ‘Freak' Injury After Win Over Mexico

2026 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.

This story was originally published July 8, 2026 at 10:33 AM.