United States coach Greg Berhalter admitted his team needs to be more effective and decisive if they are to have a chance of reaching the last 16 of the World Cup after putting in an impressive display against England in Group B last night.
The United States dominated the game for long periods but were unable to convert several first-half chances to tie for the second time in a row after being held 1-1 with Wales last Monday.
Coach Berhalter’s team occupies third place in Group B with two points and will qualify for the round of sixteen for the fifth time since 1994 if it beats Iran in the last match of the group stage next Tuesday.
“The final performance could still be better,” Berhalter told reporters. “I am generally happy with the team’s performance and most importantly the faith of this group because it has not been shaken.”
“What I saw before the game was a team very focused on getting good results. In the end, our focus will be to qualify for the knockout stages of the World Cup. We played with great spirit but we have to be ready for it (against Iran). We want a chance to qualify… We know it’s going to be a tough game, and I’m looking forward to this opportunity.”
Tyler Adams, Younis Musa and Weston McKinney led the midfield and the Americans were unlucky to take the lead before the break, as Christian Pulisic hit the crossbar with his left foot.
A young and inexperienced American team outperformed England, who demolished Iran 6-2 in their opening match.
The English team was subjected to ridicule and boos from its fans after the final whistle and a draw with America, who returned to participate in the World Cup for the first time after eight years.
“I think this is a positive sign,” said Chelsea striker Pulisic. “It was a really strong performance from the team against good opposition.”
“We showed a lot of confidence and fought hard against England… but the job wasn’t even close to being done so we have a lot of work to do.”