The United States advanced to the knockout stage of the 2022 World Cup after defeating Iran 1-0 on Tuesday at Al Thumama Stadium to finish second in Group B and clinch a last-16 meeting against the Netherlands.
In the 38th minute, Christian Pulisic converted Sergino Dest’s headed cross, putting his body on the line and incurring an abdominal injury after colliding with Iran’s goalie.
Due to the injury, Pulisic was replaced at halftime by Brenden Aaronson, but it was clearly a cost worth paying for the US, as Gregg Berhalter’s team held on to their lead in the second half to progress at the expense of Iran.
England leads the group with seven points, one more than the United States, which defeated Wales 3-0 in the other final-round group game. Iran finishes third, ahead of Wales, who would have advanced with a tie.
The United States will now face Group A champions the Netherlands on Saturday in an attempt to reach the quarterfinals for the first time since 2002.
“In the first half we showed what we can do, soccer wise,” Berhalter told FOX. “We had a really good first half. Second half we showed what we could do determination wise.
“The guys grinded, gave every single ounce and we are undefeated going into the next round.”