Home / Sports / Klinsmann: USA vs Belgium rematch echoes 2014
Klinsmann: USA vs Belgium rematch echoes 2014
6 Jul
Summary
- Klinsmann recalls USA's heartbreaking 2-1 extra-time loss to Belgium in 2014.
- Tim Howard made a record 16 saves in the 2014 USA-Belgium World Cup match.
- Four Belgian players from 2014 will play in the upcoming USA match.
Former USA coach Jurgen Klinsmann reflected on the pivotal 2014 World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium. The USA suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat in extra time, despite a heroic 16-save performance from goalkeeper Tim Howard, a record for the tournament.
Klinsmann acknowledges Belgium's historical strength and recent form, noting their 5-2 friendly win over the USA in March. However, he highlights the current USMNT's maturity, confidence, and the significant advantage of playing on home soil in the upcoming fixture.
He recalled the USA's belief in 2014, stemming from a tough group stage that included near-wins against Portugal and Germany. Klinsmann emphasized that a victory against Belgium would be another major milestone for soccer's growth in the United States, providing a substantial boost to the sport's popularity.
Four Belgian players who participated in the 2014 match – Thibaut Courtois, Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Axel Witsel – are expected to be part of the team facing the USA. The USMNT will also benefit from the availability of striker Folarin Balogun.
