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USMNT's 1930 Echo: Semifinal Dreams Reignited
26 Jun
Summary
- USMNT matches 1930's back-to-back wins in current tournament.
- Folarin Balogun scored a brace, echoing 1930's Patenaude hat trick.
- Team aims for semifinals, a feat last achieved in 1930.

The U.S. men's national soccer team is currently making a significant impact in the 2026 World Cup, sparking discussions about a potential return to the semifinals. This achievement would mark a historic moment, as the team's last appearance at this stage was in the inaugural 1930 tournament.
Comparisons are being drawn between the current squad and the legendary 1930 team, particularly regarding recent successes. The team has secured back-to-back wins, a feat not accomplished since that historic tournament. Player Folarin Balogun has also made headlines, scoring a brace in a recent match, mirroring the achievement of 1930 player Bert Patenaude, who scored a hat trick.
With strong performance in the group stage, including a plus-five goal differential and six goals scored in their initial two games, the U.S. is poised to advance to the Round of 32. This stage is anticipated to be their most challenging test yet as they strive to emulate the success of 1930 and reach the semifinals.