One of the biggest stars of the USMNT is Tyler Adams, and the midfielder played 72 minutes for Team USA against Belgium in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. The USMNT lost 4-1 and is eliminated from the competition.
Adams played in four out of five USMNT World Cup games over the past few weeks. The 2026 World Cup was his second World Cup with the USMNT, and he has now made 8 World Cup appearances.
Adams' reaction after the game reveals his thoughts and those of USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino about what the 2026 World Cup will leave for US Soccer.
Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images
Adams praised Belgium but also praised the USMNT for their performances for most of the tournament. Adams said, "I think football can be cruel sometimes. The better team won today. I don't think we can take away what we did in the tournament. The goals we conceded were too easy, and when you give good players those chances, they score. We faced a good Belgium side today.
Tyler Adams on What Mauricio Pochettino Told The USMNT
Cameras captured USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino gathering the USMNT in a group huddle after the 4-1 loss to Belgium.
Adams was asked about what Pochettino said to the players, and his response is encouraging as to what the team aspires.
Adams said, "[Pochettino said] that tonight can't be a direct reflection of our tournament. We came out with the ambition that we could go far, we didn't go as far as we'd liked. If we inspired some kids this summer, then that is great. The fans deserved more, the people back home deserved more. I can't thank everyone enough. We went through tough times and amazing times; it's been a journey."
The USMNT midfielder believes the 2026 World Cup will benefit young players for future tournaments and says that is what he earned from this competition.
Tyler Adams said, "We called ourselves a family in the best moments, we have to be one in the rough times too. How close this group has grown has been amazing, guys will take the next step because of this tournament. When you look towards the future, a lot of young guys will be stars for the later teams."
