World Cup Rewind: USMNT advance to Round of 16 with historic win over Iran

For the first time since 2014, the United States Men’s National Team has advanced to the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup. The Red, White & Blue will take on European powerhouse The Netherlands on Saturday (7:00 p.m. PT| FOX). 

On a historic night in Qatar, the USMNT entered the match knowing that only a win would secure passage to the knockout rounds. It was apparent that the Stars & Stripes were up from the challenge from the opening whistle, dominating and creating a host of chances in the first half.

• Information on USA vs. The Netherlands official watch party at The Armory

Yunus Musah, Tim Weah, Cristian Pulisic and Sergiño Dest all came close to finding the opener inside the first 30 minutes. But it was Pulisic in the 38th minute who found the game-winning goal. Weston McKennie clipped a long ball into the box that Dest headed across the face of goal, where Pulisic threw himself at the ball to push it past the Iranian goalkeeper. The goal came at a cost, though, as Pulisic picked up an injury on the play and was eventually substituted at the half.

The USMNT had three quality chances to double their lead before the halftime break but were unable to capitalize. It led for a nervy second period as Iran threw numbers forward to find an equalizer that would send them to the knockout rounds over the U.S.

Undeterred by the pressure of the occasion, this young U.S. Men’s National Team defended resolutely and hung on for a massive 1-0 win. 

Sounders FC players Jordan Morris and Cristian Roldan made the matchday squad but were unused substitutes. 

The U.S. will take on Netherlands on Saturday (7:00 p.m. PT| FOX) in the Round of 16 in the 2022 World Cup. Sounders FC will host another official watch party at The Armory in Seattle Center. Stay tuned for more information HERE.