USA Makes It to World Cup Quarterfinals After Two Decades

Team USA reaches the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time in 20 years.

The United States Men's National Team (USMNT) made history at the 2025 FIFA World Cup by reaching the quarterfinals for the first time in two decades. Their inspiring campaign captured the imagination of fans worldwide and marked a major milestone in the nation's growing football legacy. The U.S. entered the tournament with a young and energetic squad, featuring rising stars like Giovanni Reyna, Yunus Musah, and captain Christian Pulisic. Under the guidance of head coach Gregg Berhalter, the team displayed a fearless and attacking brand of football that won them admirers at home and abroad. In the group stage, the U.S. advanced confidently with two wins and a draw, including a thrilling 2-1 victory over a seasoned Uruguay side. Their momentum continued in the Round of 16, where they defeated Switzerland 1-0 in a tightly contested match, thanks to a late winner from substitute Ricardo Pepi. The quarterfinal appearance marks the team’s best performance since the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan. Though their journey ended with a narrow 2-1 loss to Spain in the quarters, the squad’s performance was seen as a major step forward in their international evolution. Coach Berhalter expressed his pride in the team, “This group showed the world what American soccer is becoming. It’s just the beginning.” Fans across the United States celebrated the achievement, with massive viewership numbers and social media trends dominating sports headlines. The run has sparked renewed excitement around soccer in America ahead of their co-hosting of the 2026 World Cup. While the U.S. may have fallen short of a semifinal berth, their impressive run proved they are no longer underdogs but serious contenders on football’s biggest stage.