The U.S. men's national team was once again outclassed by a European power, falling to Belgium, 4-1, in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup in Seattle on Monday evening.
The American team, which was hoping to make a run to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2002, was playing on its home soil. However, that didn't end up mattering. Belgium dominated the game from start to finish, advancing to the Round of 8, where a bout with Spain awaits.
The U.S. has consistently debated what it would take for the American men to develop into a world-class team. However, for years, the U.S. has had the same type of results on the world stage. U.S. men's team have been incapable of making truly deep runs in the World Cup - and they don't look capable of it when paired up against a traditional world power.
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So, what's the problem? Coaching? Talent pool? Player development?
Some are now pointing to the high cost of youth soccer, which makes it harder for everyone to get involved.
High costs blamed for U.S. soccer struggles
ESPN's Dan Wetzel said sarcastically: "Maybe making travel soccer even more expensive will help the US finally get good."
Fox News' Clay Travis added: "One big US soccer thought: our youth development has to get more affordable. One of my kids plays travel. It’s at least $5k a year & this isn’t even super high end. We can afford it, thankfully, lots can’t. Youth sports costs in the US are out of control, soccer more than most.
"Kids benefit tremendously from youth sports. But we are pricing out a ton of kids and their families. Lots of our best talent doesn’t ever get developed or the advantages of playing team sports and learning how to win and lose for later in life. (End rant)."
It's clear that soccer is not the top sport for most of America's youth. For European and South American countries, it's always No. 1.
