SouthernWorldwide.com – Despite an early exit from the tournament, Team USA’s performance has earned praise from a former FIFA World Cup champion, who believes the squad’s efforts on home soil deserve recognition.
The French legend, Christian Karembeu, who was part of the victorious 1998 World Cup squad, expressed his surprise at the U.S. team’s performance, stating that as Europeans and fellow players, they exceeded expectations.
Karembeu suggested that the current coach, Mauricio Pochettino, has done an admirable job and that the nation should be proud of Team USA’s achievements.
The sentiment of national pride was palpable, with the entire country rallying behind the three host nations: the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. Karembeu, who experienced the World Cup firsthand in 1994 when it was held in the United States, described the tournament thus far as a “successful” event.
However, the journey for Team USA concluded in the Round of 16 with a 4-1 defeat to Belgium. This loss, marked by several key defensive errors that led to goals, somewhat overshadowed the three victories the U.S. had secured earlier in the tournament, including their win against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32.
Karembeu views the loss to Belgium as a valuable learning experience for the U.S. as they set their sights on the future, particularly the 2030 World Cup.
“We learn every time, every day, every year. I think that through Pochettino, Team USA has improved a lot,” he explained. “That’s why I said I don’t think it’ll be surprising in the next four years – they’ll be in Morocco, Portugal and Spain – Team USA will maybe go to the final. Because now they have seen what was missing maybe, but I think it was more a lack of experience. Otherwise, they have the potential.”
Prior to the match against Belgium, Team USA found themselves in the global spotlight due to a controversial decision by FIFA. The federation invoked Article 27 of its disciplinary code to suspend the red card issued to Folarin Balogun in the Round of 32, allowing him to participate in the Belgium game. This decision drew strong criticism, notably from the Belgian Football Federation, which released a stern statement regarding the matter.
The situation even garnered attention from President Donald Trump, who reportedly contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino to request a review of Balogun’s red card.
While some suggested this controversy might have been a distraction for the U.S. team, no excuses were offered. Coach Pochettino and many players acknowledged a lapse in effort and precision during this crucial stage of the tournament.
Despite the setback, Karembeu maintains an optimistic outlook on Team USA’s prospects.
“I think you need to focus on the collective result and what they achieved before that. We need to be very focused on what they delivered,” he stated.
For Team USA to potentially realize Karembeu’s prediction of reaching a final, they must first navigate the qualification process for the next World Cup, as their automatic bid was solely due to their status as a host nation.
EVERY THROW-IN COUNTS AT THE WORLD CUP
Beyond the on-field action, Karembeu expressed his enthusiasm for Coca-Cola and FIFA’s innovative fan engagement initiative, “Every Throw-In Counts.” This program offers fans a unique way to connect with the tournament outside of the traditional match experience.
The initiative seamlessly blends soccer-related activities with lifestyle and community care elements, encouraging fans worldwide to complete simple, everyday tasks. By uploading photos of their completed activities, fans can score “goals” and enter to win exclusive prizes. Activities range from recycling and utilizing public transportation to opting for reusable items. To date, over 5,000 fans have participated, accumulating more than 34,000 goals, with more games still to be played.
“It is awesome. It’s fun, simple,” Karembeu remarked. “Fans embrace it because it is simple. They can play with it with their families. It’s just perfect for everyone.
“I think this is a lesson and model for everyone. Therefore, when you have this great platform for the World Cup tournament, it’s good to share this initiative with the fans. To be responsible and to be sustainable.”
