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The US men’s soccer team’s run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended on a discouraging note, but the US Soccer Federation is incredibly grateful for the support the team received during its run to the round of 16.
A day after their elimination from the World Cup, the United States Soccer Federation issued a statement in English and Spanish thanking American fans for their support during the tournament.
“When we ask, ‘why not us?’ you responded,” the federation wrote. “They filled stadiums. They brought the game to their homes, bars, parks and communities across the country. Every time our players stepped onto the field, they brought their support with them. Wearing the crest is a privilege, and hearing their voices throughout this tournament is something we will never forget.”
The tournament, which marked the first men’s World Cup to be played in the United States since 1994, saw one of the three host nations have one of the best World Cup runs in their history. The United States won three games in a men’s World Cup for the first time in its federation’s history, as the Americans also won Group D before their round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Still, the U.S. tournament ended in an all-too-familiar way. With their 4-1 loss to Belgium, it marked the third consecutive appearance that the United States men’s soccer team has lost in the round of 16 of the World Cup. As a result, the United States is still looking to reach the quarterfinals of the men’s World Cup for the first time since 2002.
So, the federation’s statement also focused on the future development of the squad and the national program going forward.
“We will learn from this,” the federation wrote. We will improve to compete with the best in the world. And we will continue working because that is what this team and this country expect from us.”
But America’s run also brought record enthusiasm for soccer across the country. As the statement highlighted high participation in stadiums, parties and public spaces throughout the tournament, viewership for the team’s games on FOX also set records.
The fans’ enthusiasm also helped them build a unique bond with the team. And what better way for the federation to close its statement with a lyric that creates a bond between fans and the team? The statement ended with a nod to the team anthem of this tournament:
“Country roads, take us home. See you there.”
